• To ensure that all students leaving the school system in the twenty-first century have a good knowledge of, adequate skills in, and favorable attitudes toward the use of information technology

• To encourage teachers to use information technology to enhance the teaching/learning process

In order to achieve these objectives, it is essential that existing school plants be generally refurbished and prepared for the installation of computer and other media equipment.

Phase 1 of the program is virtually completed, and Phase 2 is underway. Phase 3 comprises the refurbishment of 11 primary schools. Registered prequalified contractors are expected to be invited to tender for Phase 3 civil works in November 2001. Four further phases comprising approximately 43 primary schools will be tendered during the period 2002-2005.

The scope of works for the project involves two types of schools: those built before, and those built after 1982. The older units range in size from 6,000 to 8,000 sq. ft., 560 m2 to 740 m2, and are constructed of either timber or concrete block walls supporting timber framed roofs covered with corrugated iron sheeting; the floors are of timber struts clad with pine planks. The newer units are approximately 14,000 sq. ft. or 1,300 m2 and feature concrete block with steel reinforcing, steel framed roofs covered with corrugated iron sheets, and floors of reinforced concrete slabs.

Refurbishment/renovation works to ensure the security of windows, doors and roofs, rewiring and upgrading of electrical and plumbing installations as required, redecorating of walls, general security of premises, repairs and/or provision of pavements.

Tenders for the works will be available separately for each school, and firms may bid for any or all schools.

The applicable rules of the IDB will apply in determining the eligibility of the firms.

Contractors seeking to be prequalified are required to submit a completed prequalification application form. Applications will be evaluated in accordance with the following four criteria: eligibility financial situation, historical contract performance and experience.

Prequalification application forms can be obtained from the Education Project Implementation Unit between 0900 and 1600 hours, Monday through Friday, upon payment of a non-refundable fee equivalent to BDS$ 30, or US$ 15, at the first address below.

Clarification and further information can be obtained from the same address. Any contracting firm wishing to prequalify must complete the necessary prequalification application form. In the case of joint ventures, each firm must submit a separate application form.

1) Education Project Implementation Unit

Constitution Road

Saint Michael, Barbados

Tel: (1-246) 430-2890. Fax: (1-246) 437-8123.

2) Central Purchasing Department

Special Tenders Committee