General Accident Insurance Jamaica (GenAc) explored the basics of computer programming with Drews Avenue Primary School students through the global Hour of Code initiative on December 10.

The Hour of Code is a worldwide movement introducing tens of millions of students worldwide to Computer Science.  Having started out as a one-hour coding challenge, the Hour of Code is now an annual learning event that takes place during Computer Science Education Week – December 5-11, 2022.

General Accident Help Desk Technician, Omaro Taylor coaches students of Drews Avenue Primary School in Kingston through an Hour of Code session on December 8, 2022. The Hour of Code is now an annual global learning event that takes place during Computer Science Education Week – December 5th-11th 2022.

Conducted in partnership with the Musson Foundation, the local initiative saw Drews Avenue Primary School students from fourth to sixth grade excited to learn about the new subject matter.

Helpdesk Technician at General Accident, Omaro Taylor, led the students through a series of fun, introductory exercises. “I hope that this initiative will open up some new ways of thinking for the kids that will show them that there are different ways to solve problems, approach situations and strategize. I feel like I helped them to expand on their problem-solving skills,” Taylor said.

For General Accident’s Managing Director,  Sharon Donaldson, the initiative is one Genac will continue to foster. “Our company culture supports learning and elevating through education for all. This is exemplified by our continued aid supplied to the Maisie Green Learning Centre,” Donaldson said.

“The Hour of Code is an added opportunity for members of the Genac team to provide educational support to the next generation.

Drews Avenue Primary Teacher and Hour of Code session facilitator, Hopal Harris, was happy the students were able to experience the hour of code.  “It’s a good thing for the children. Knowledge is always good. The children are excited, and the Drews Avenue family is grateful for the inclusion,” Harris said.

The Hour of Code activity reinforces problem-solving and critical thinking skills while emphasizing teamwork. It supports the new curriculum and the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) that was recently introduced in schools at the primary level across Jamaica.