In a significant step towards community upliftment and educational enhancement, bmobile has partnered with the United Way Trinidad and Tobago (UWTT) for their annual Day of Caring to upgrade the St David’s R.C. Primary, a school that, despite facing substantial challenges, boasts a rich history in music, sport, and community engagement.

UWTT is a local non-profit organisation and has served communities in Trinidad and Tobago for almost 25 years. Now in its 11th year, the Day of Caring initiative focuses on volunteerism and encourages individuals or groups to donate time and talent to projects which will impact positively on families, communities, non-governmental organisations and the environment. The 2024 theme is ‘Show You Care Everywhere.’

bmobile’s commitment to the annual event is well documented and spans more than a decade. Over 30 volunteers from the communications solutions provider journeyed to Kelly Village, Caroni, to give St David’s, which was established in 1952, a much-needed facelift; painting classrooms and carrying out various refurbishing work on the school’s aging infrastructure.

Principal Ginnall Thomas said the heartfelt gesture couldn’t come at a better time for her students, many of whom come from low socio-economic backgrounds and single-parent households. “It is inspiring to know that there are volunteers willing to assist in the improvement of the lives of our nation’s most precious resources, our young children,” she said, adding that. “The environment we create for the nurturing of our children is very significant in the way they perceive themselves, their worth and the way they would relate to their world. Stimulating and aesthetically pleasing environments develop in children a sense of high expectations and standards. It is good that awareness is being brought to our citizens.”

Studies consistently demonstrate that students perform significantly better in clean and uplifting school environments compared to those that are dilapidated. Research from the National Center for Education Statistics highlights that well-maintained facilities contribute to higher student achievement and improved behavior. And, a study by the University of Salford found that the physical condition of a school can impact student performance by as much as 16 percent. Clean, bright, and well-equipped classrooms foster a positive atmosphere that enhances concentration and morale, reduces absenteeism, and boosts overall academic performance.

Thomas pointed out that the school provides stationery and uniforms to students’ in need, and to help address increasing literacy problems, teachers are encouraged to practice oral and remedial reading in their classrooms. “There is much work to be done in changing the mindsets of students, teachers and parents. It feels great to know that God continues to bless our school as he sends his
helpers. We are very grateful and honoured to bmobile in collaboration with United Way of Trinidad and Tobago for answering His call and saying yes to give of their precious personal time and resources to making a difference on their annual Day of Caring. We are joyous that we are this year’s recipient of such caring.”

According to Anjanie Ramesar-Soom of the Corporate, Environmental, Social & Reputation Management team, this year’s partnership with UWTT laid the groundwork for sustainable improvement, not only for the 137 pupils of the denominational co-ed school, but for the community at large. "We are honoured to partner with United Way Trinidad and Tobago for this year’s Day of Caring. Recognising the significant challenges the school faces, particularly in literacy and resources, we are committed to making a lasting impact. Our commitment to St David’s goes beyond today,” he assures. “We believe in the potential of every student and are dedicated to creating an environment where they can thrive. Together, we believe we can create a brighter future for the children of St David’s and foster a stronger, more resilient community.”

bmobile came in for high praise from Linda Ramsumir, Community Investment Manager, UWTT, who said that, “each year bmobile answers our call to action in supporting the vulnerable in society. This year is no different. The input and dedication of the employee volunteers to the event was invaluable and we cannot thank them enough. It is only with the generosity of companies and their employees, we are able to extend our help to primary schools and NGOs beyond the much needed financial support.”

And through collaboration with the UWTT and Telios, bmobile has also made it easy for the public to do their part to contribute to this noble cause to help create a brighter, more optimistic future for the students of St David’s.

How can you help?
Well, caring is now literally at your fingertips! All you have to do is text HELP to GIVE (4483) from your mobile phone to donate to the fund. Remember, no donation is too small. Every dollar counts!