Pupils and residents, previously lacking access to a computer lab in the Fort Grey area outside East London, are overjoyed after receiving a much-needed facility to grow their digital skills.
The modern lab worth R550,000 is equipped with 30 laptops, internet connectivity and backup power.
Upon completing their training, each pupil from Umtiza High School will be awarded a digital literacy certificate.
The project also includes accredited training opportunities for teachers from the school, aimed at improving teaching quality through technology integration.
This initiative, facilitated by the office of Eastern Cape premier Oscar Mabuyane, is led by the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) in partnership with Microsoft SA and Deviare, an ICT small business.
Together, they aim to boost digital literacy, bridge the digital divide and empower the youth in the Eastern Cape.
Economic development, environmental affairs and tourism MEC Nonkqubela Pieters collaborated with key stakeholders, educators and pupils to launch the cutting-edge community-based digital (4IR) computer laboratory.
This project represents the first phase of a five-year corporate social investment (CSI) initiative, with a total investment of R550,000, aimed at supporting five selected schools in the region.
The ELIDZ contributed R200,000 to the project, with Microsoft SA covering the remaining R350,000.
ELIDZ board chair Prof Mlungisi Makhalima said the initiative would help pupils to take part in technological industries.
“The ELIDZ is proud to partner with Umtiza High School as we work towards equipping young people with the skills to actively participate in technology-driven industries,” Makhalima said.
He said the initiative would help reduce the digital skills gap in the province and this aligned with the ELIDZ’s industrial development focus and growing investment in the automotive sector.
“As we transition towards electric vehicles, this project expands our skills pool, preparing our youth to enter the automotive and other technology-intensive sectors.”
Speaking on behalf of Microsoft SA, Asif Valley, a key donor and partner, said the company was committed to promoting digital access in underserved communities.
“This partnership represents a step forward in empowering the youth with digital skills that are critical for today’s and tomorrow’s workforce.”
Valley said by investing in digital foundation, this generation would move in the right direction.
“By investing in digital education, Microsoft SA is helping to lay the foundation for a technology-savvy generation that will drive the South African economy forward.”
Pieters urged community members to safeguard “this state-of-the-art facility”.
She said the project was significant and formed part of the pillars of the Eastern Cape economy.
Pieters said the digital skills pupils would gain through this initiative would be essential for future success, particularly as the industrial landscape rapidly evolved to demand a tech-savvy workforce.
She said such initiatives needed to be extended to deep rural areas.
Department of education director for e-learning, Lutho Kota-Mgwali, highlighted the alignment of this initiative with the department’s curriculum.
“We are pleased with this intervention, which brings us closer to making e-learning a reality across the region,” Kota-Mgwali said.
“This collaboration not only enhances curriculum alignment but also brings meaningful technology access to our learners,” she said.
Deviare managing director Lubabalo Dyantyi said they were committed to ensuring the programme was effective.
“We will ensure that the programme is rolled out as planned and that learners acquire the industry-relevant skills needed for future employment and success.”
Thrilled grade 11 pupil Lorna Fredderiks said the facilities would prepare them for higher education, something they looked forward to.
“We are grateful for this opportunity to explore technology. With these skills, we’ll be able to navigate confidently, even when we reach university.”
Meanwhile, the ward councillor for the area, Nwabisa Mcwabeni, thanked residents who had taken the initiative to fix potholes.
Mcwabeni confirmed that he has received numerous complaints from the community regarding the state of the roads in the areas.
“Addressing potholes throughout Buffalo City needs to be brought to the municipality’s attention as it is BCM’s responsibility.
“I truly appreciate the residents’ efforts to intervene, as I have reported these issues to officials.
“I commend the steps they have taken and I also volunteered to fix potholes but found it challenging on my own.
“I encourage others to join in this effort. I want to thank those involved, as I also use these roads.
“However, some issues are beyond my control including this one,” he said.
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