Northern Ireland’s approach to deploying technology in schools is “world class” and will produce long-term gains for the local economy, according to a government technology expert.

Speaking at the National Education Network’s annual technology summit, Dr Stephen Lucey from government agency Becta said Northern Ireland’s use of technology in schools would make the local economy more competitive in the future.

“Over the last ten years, Northern Ireland has been at the |forefront of delivering quality |and professionally managed |information and communication technology services in schools.

“As a result of the work of the Department of Education and Classroom 2000 (c2k) locally, every child has access to world class learning resources to equip them with the necessary ICT skills for a 21st Century digital economy. This has enhanced the teaching and learning of subjects like science and maths which are crucial to developing high value sectors such as life sciences,” he said.

Martin Murphy, managing director of Hewlett-Packard in |Ireland said that fostering ICT literacy at all levels is crucial for the future of the economy.

“We are driving a vision within HP globally of where the island of Ireland should be, and that is a place that is perceived and recognised internationally as a global hub for knowledge, innovation and know-how,” said Mr Murphy.

“A central element to this is ensuring that young people leave school and university with the right competencies.

“Through the work of Classroom 2000, children in schools in Northern Ireland have access to a rich range of world class educational technology and digital resources.”