Jamaica faces challenges in providing a solid STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education to its youth. Furthermore, there are concern that the national posture tends to be that of late adopters to technology rather than creators and innovators. However, amidst this, Deandrew Moore, a 25-year-old recent computer science graduate from the Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, has developed the ATMFinderJa app to address the frustration of locating reliable ATMs.

Mr. Moore's app relies on community-driven reports to inform users about the working status of ATMs, demonstrating STEM in action to solve a national challenge. Despite potential security concerns, Moore's effort was applauded and is seen as an outcome of the benefits of a STEM-based education.

This development connects to the larger conversation about the need for STEM education in Jamaica and the potential positive impact of locally-trained developers on national challenges. Prime Minister Andrew Holness also promises the establishment of six STEM schools to bridge the digital divide, expressing anticipation for the potential return on such an investment in empowering the current generation of digital natives.

Photo caption (L-R): Interviewer on Smilejamtvj with Deandrew Moore. 

Photo credit: Smilejamtvj

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