Johannesburg | Sunday
SOME Alexandra students may not have the smartest uniforms and latest textbooks, but they have a link to the world of technology through their newly opened Cyber Lab Project.
Minerva High School in Alexandra north of Johannesburg on Saturday celebrated the official opening of their fully equipped computer centre which will give disadvantaged students hands-on access to the latest communication tools on-line.
Minister of Communications, Dr Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri said that Alexandra was a good place to launch the Cyber Lab project because of it played an active role in the struggle against apartheid.
Matsepe Casaburri said: ”You have a mammoth task to defend and nourish the good legacy of this township. It must become a fountain of hope for the young and old, women and men.”
Ms Matsepe Casaburri said communications technology was at the core of the continent’s renewal plan.
She said: ”Africa cannot assume its rightful place as an equal partner amongst the community of nations if we do not as a matter of urgency eradicate the digital divide.”
Government has adopted a policy which entitles all public schools to a 50% discount for internet connections. According to the policy a network of schools will also be established for education and information sharing purposes.
Twenty-three computers fitted with e-mail and internet have been installed at the school for the use of students.
Minerva High School was established in 1980 and has 1400 students. The school was chosen for the project because ex-student, Dituo Mvelase felt that students should make a contribution to the school that educated them. While working at the Universal Service Agency, a government parastatal, she suggested it as a very worthwhile project.
Linah Mavhungu, Principal of Minerva High School said: ”All the students are very excited and are looking forward to learning all about the internet and how to use e-mail.
”All 40 teachers at the school have been taught how to use the internet and e-mail. Next year, the school hopes to include the community, especially the parents of students by teaching them how to go online as well.” – Sapa