A world of knowledge and opportunity remains out of reach for millions of learners who are being left behind in the digital revolution, but a dedicated organisation is changing the status quo by getting donated pre-loved tech to schools in need.
Doc Sethole, director of One on One Community Based Programmes says that ongoing donations of computers, laptops and servers from companies like Netcare enable schools to equip learners for future opportunities that are heavily dependent on technological skills.
“The recent opening of the computer lab at Hwiti High School in Limpopo province is yet another example of collaborative efforts yielding tangible results for promising young people who might otherwise be extremely limited in developing careers.
| Donated pre-loved computers, laptops and servers from Netcare are helping to equip learners for a future of opportunities heavily dependent on digital literacy. |
| Pictured at the recent opening of the computer lab at Hwiti High School in Limpopo province, from left to right: Sylvester Mothiba, SCO Committee Member; Doc Sethole, One On One Community Based Programmes Chairperson; Dr Aaron Tau, University of Limpopo Maths Lecturer; Lethabo Morerwa, Mamabudusha High School SMT Member; David Magagane, Mankweng Circuit Manager. |
“Computer literacy empowers learners and their teachers with skills and information during these most formative educational years. This forms an essential foundation as a workplace requirement that will only become more prevalent in future. Once they are computer literate, learners have the possibility of going on to study robotics, coding, programming and other areas of science and technology,” he says.
Over the past year, 145 computers, two servers and several laptops donated by Netcare have been installed at various sites including Ebenezer High School in Mokopane, Mamaolo Primary School in Polokwane, and Radinong High School in Lephalale among others, with Hwiti High School being the most recent recipient. As part of this ongoing project, additional computers and laptops are earmarked for other schools in the near future when they become available.
According to Sharlene Swart, corporate social investment projects and funding manager, Netcare is delighted to partner with One on One Community Based Programmes to ensure that used equipment from Netcare offices has a second life supporting educational needs.
“We have a long-standing relationship with Doc Sethole and One on One, who has developed extensive knowledge and understanding in how to identify and facilitate the donation of computer equipment and other resources. We are humbled to be of service to these communities and urge other companies to consider One on One and the schools they work with when replacing computers and other equipment,” she says.
Sethole notes that the technological gap in many South African schools represents an enormous barrier to unlocking the true potential of learners in the science, technology, education and mathematics (STEM) learning space at a crucial stage of their development.
“South Africa is indeed a land of endless opportunity, and there is a demand for skilled professionals in the fields of engineering, healthcare, natural sciences, information technology and others, but without an understanding of computers and technology, learners are excluded from pursuing these opportunities.
“We at One on One call on all stakeholders across state and private sectors to take urgent action – the sooner we intervene, the greater the difference we can make. Every component that adds value to changing the underprivileged narrative will be welcomed with both hands,” he concludes.
One on One Community Based Programmes aims to address historical pre-tertiary imbalances and empower the next generation through education and health at instructional or educational level with holistic interventions, including building schools’ capacities for educators and learners alike, prioritising gateway subjects such as mathematics and physical sciences.
For more information about what you can do to support One on One Community Based Programmes, please visit https://www.oneononecom.co.za
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Notes to editor
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