Fire devastates computer labs at Bustamante High

Principal Wayne Evans has called the destruction of two computer labs at Bustamante High School in Clarendon early Tuesday morning “a serious blow” to the institution. The fire, which broke out around 1 a.m., has significantly disrupted the school’s operations, particularly affecting technology-related subjects.

Reports from the May Pen Fire Station indicate that the blaze resulted in the loss of approximately 70 laptops, 49 desktop computers, two projectors, a server, an uninterruptible power supply, and several desks and chairs.

Evans expressed deep concern about the impact on technology-dependent courses, such as information technology and electronic document preparation and management.

He noted that the fire also interrupted the school’s computer loan service, a vital resource for students who lack access to devices at home.

“This is a serious setback,” Evans lamented. “Both of our computer labs are gone, which impacts our ability to prepare students for their [external] exams. These facilities were crucial in enhancing our teaching and learning strategies.”

The labs, operational for over two decades, were a cornerstone of the school’s academic framework, making the loss even more profound.

Clarendon South Eastern Member of Parliament Pearnel Charles Jr echoed Evans’ concerns.

“All the equipment was destroyed, and it was only recently received from the Government. The prime minister himself visited the school on multiple occasions as part of efforts to develop Bustamante High School,” Charles noted. “While this is a tragic setback, we are thankful that no lives were lost and that the incident did not occur during school hours.”

He added that all stakeholders are working together to ensure the school’s facilities are restored as quickly as possible.

An investigation is currently under way to determine the cause of the fire.

olivia.brown@gleanerjm.com