The education ministry on Tuesday announced it would subsidise the purchase of laptops for needy students attending second grade of gymnasium and those attending preparatory evening classes for gymnasiums and lyceums.

The ministry said that recognising the need to introduce and use the new information and communication technologies in education “and showing particular sensitivity in supporting needy students”, it will give €400 to each needy pupil in these categories for the purchase of a laptop.

Eligible are second-grade gymnasium students and those attending preparatory evening classes at gymnasiums and lyceums whose families (or themselves if they are over 18) are recipients of the guaranteed minimum income or other state aid. Eligible are also pupils going to private schools that are approved by the ministry.

The ministry said it remains committed to upgrading the educational system and offering quality education to the youth including helping them prepare for a highly demanding and competitive employment environment.

Towards this end, it said, it undertakes various initiatives, submits suggestions and proposals and adopts new modernisation measures, including the implementation of the computer grant programme, as well as the use of computers as a tool for learning and supporting the teaching process.

Those interested in the grant can call 22800634 for information on how to apply, and 22306030 for information on the technical specifications of the laptop or submit their questions to [email protected] .