Thousands of public school teachers appeared at the Ministry of Education’s promotional event over the weekend, where they were offered loans to purchase computers. Education Minister Alejandrina German was surprised by the massive turnout, saying she was overwhelmed when thousands more turned up, many having come form the interior provinces. Over the weekend, the ministry was able to process 5,000 purchase requests.
German said that the turnout shows that, despite the difficulties public school teachers confront in their work, they are open to change and new technologies. The computers are being financed at terms of 36 months at 28% interest. The prices of the computers vary from RD$13,000 to RD$28,000. Teachers are receiving a bonus of RD$5,000 towards the purchase. The package also includes a printer, and Internet dial up service. Some 20 private suppliers offered their brands in the parking area of the Bellas Artes building at Maximo Gomez next door to the Ministry of Education.