As Carnival activities intensify across the country, the steelband movement is also expanding opportunities for youth development through technology.
Eight new Technology-in-Education Centres have been established in partnership with the Digicel Foundation, bringing additional digital resources to panyards and community spaces in Trinidad and Tobago.
The centres are located at various sites such as Tornadoes Steel Orchestra, Siparia Deltones Steel Orchestra, Merry Tones Steel Orchestra, Panjammers Steel Orchestra, Birdsong Steel Band Academy and Social Enterprises, and the Roxborough Police Youth Club in Tobago.
Each facility is outfitted with computers, internet access, and digital tools to support research, learning, and creative development.
Speaking at the launch event held at the Birdsong Academy in St. Augustine, Digicel Foundation Chairman Desha Clifford said the initiative strengthens spaces where young people are already engaged, while expanding their access to digital opportunities.
Pan Trinbago Public Relations Officer Kwesi Moore said the programme now connects 26 panyards in a national network of digital learning hubs, impacting hundreds of young musicians.