By Simphiwe Xako and Thandiwe Matyobeni

A global commitment has been made to improving digital access and using technologies for innovation which is reflected in frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals.  In Makhanda, digital transformation has become a key focus for the Education sector, recognising the opportunities presented by digital capabilities. Rhodes University supports this city-wide drive, leveraging its strengths to build on the developments taking place in community-based organisations and local schools.

Rhodes University Computer Sciences

At Rhodes University, the Computer Science Department in the Faculty of Sciences has established a project to set up computer labs in primary schools in Makhanda East. Dr Stones Chindipha, Prof Alfredo Terzoli and Dr Zalem equip the labs with computers, complete with a new mouse and keyboard, and install a server to connect the computers to the internet, says Dr Chindipha.  

“The core idea is to help those schools who cannot afford to have labs of their own. There are two requirements for this: The school has to make sure that they have a room big enough to host enough computers that we can use to set up the lab. Secondly, they should be willing to spare R15,000 to buy desks and any hardware-related items that will be needed to safeguard the lab.” 

This project offers a holistic approach to bridging the digital divide by creating a mutually beneficial partnership with learners, schools and students. 

“Some students, when they come to University, are very capable but cannot cope with computer science because they have no knowledge of what a computer is. The hope is that once we install the labs and teach the students how to use these computers when they get to University, they will be better off than they currently are.”

RU Information and Technology Services

At Rhodes University, the Information Technology Services division has collaborated with Community Engagement on the P3! Project. This year, ITS donated 100 roll down computers to the Project. IT Solutions, a local tech company, offered to do maintenance on the devices at a reduced cost which was covered by GBS Bank. These devices were then set up at various Education organisations and local schools in Makhanda. This project contributes to more facilitators and staff developing their own digital skills while improving efficiency and impact of the organisations. Many will also be using devices to implement training programmes with their learners.

IMAGE: A new lab at Archie Mbolekwa Primary School managed by Talking Technology to Power (right). GBS Bank and IT Solutions at a site where PCs were set up. 

RUCE Social Innovation Hub

ITS also supports RUCE’s Social Innovation Hub which has a public Workspace with computers, accessories and the internet, as well as Digital Resource Library for RUCE partners. The Social Innovation Hub Workspace offers a public venue with computers, internet, and study resources, complete with an internet hotspot and even power back-up for load shedding, ensuring learning continues uninterrupted. The Social innovation hub also runs various computer skills and digital media and marketing training programmes. Over 250 people took part in digital skills course through the Hub this year.

Through the SI Hub, temporary Mobile Hubs—portable computer labs—can also be set up around Makhanda, inviting local organisations to propose digital projects and get involved in digital literacy.

The Hub also provides basic tech support to community partners and assists with the setup of PCs and training progammes. One of the Hub’s partners in this space is the ADC who have a Computer Lab and run Computer Skills Training courses.

#SDCardMakhanda

Since Covid in 2020, Vulindlela has been equipping matric learners with a SD card loaded with study materials, customised to each individual learners’ subjects. Vulindlela collaborates with the 4^th Year Writing and Editing students in the School of Journalism and Media Studies.

Awarenet and Talking Technology to Power collaborated with Vulindlela on the SD Card project and have expanded its reach to include an online library, offering students from Grades 10-12 access to past exam papers, study guides, and e-books.

Rod Amner from TTTP says, “With cloud access, these resources are only a click away, giving students tools to excel.” Despite some hurdles with internet connectivity, Amner’s team is relentless, even distributing 64GB SD cards preloaded with educational content to ensure students can learn despite connectivity challenges.

Rod Amner says that Rhodes University is currently looking at initiatives which will enable all of Makhanda’s residents participating in the digital initiative. As a result, the institution is looking at establishing a permanent working relationship with strategic partners such as the provincial and local governments.

“I honestly believe that this is a great opportunity to provide the citizens of Makhanda and, by extension, the Eastern Cape and South Africa, with the requisite skills to join the global village and become part of a generation of digital innovators,” says Amner.

 

IMAGE BELOW: A lab set up at D.D. Siwisa Primary School by the Computer Sciences Dept (right). The Social Innovation Hub providing accessories for the P3 setup at a school (middle). A training programme taking place at the Social Innovation Hub at RUCE (left).