LaTonya Linton, Gleaner Writer
THE DIRECTORS of the Excelsior Education Centre have announced that the school's science laboratory facilities are to be expanded.
The expansion of the science laboratory is in its initial stages and is a part of Excelsior's 75th anniversary celebrations.
"In recognition of the important role of science and technology in promoting national development, and in an effort to help equip students at Excelsior to meet the challenges of the globalise environment, we have decided to undertake a major expansion of the school's science laboratories," said Earl Moore, president of the Excelsior Past Students' Association, during a press briefing held at Excelsior High School on Wednesday.
The science laboratory project is estimated to cost more than J$35 million. The aim of expanding the science laboratory is to provide an environment necessary to stimulate and encourage the study of science in the school.
The expansion of the science laboratory will include the expansion of the existing labs; increase in the number of labs from four to eight, and the provision of new equipment and a storage room. The expanded lab will also include an exhibition room that will be used to display outstanding work by students. A greenhouse/outdoor lab will also be built.
It is estimated that the additions to the lab will be completed within three years. The project will be funded by donations from past students and other organisations.
J$150,000 DONATION
The Ministry of Commerce, Science and Technology has donated J$150,000 to the construction of the labs. Technology Minister Phillip Paulwell said he was happy the fund-raising efforts were well under way.
"I am most encouraged by the fact that the fund-raising efforts will be in aid of a completely refurbished and modernised block of science laboratories and lecture rooms," said Minister Paulwell, an Excelsior graduate.
"Undoubtedly, this 75th anniversary project reinforces Government's commitment to science education," he added. "I am therefore encouraged by the value that you have placed on science in your future directions."
