08 February 2006
Internet Solutions (IS), a leading converged communications services provider, is sponsoring 18 teachers at their Saturday School. On successful completion of their training, the teachers will be awarded an internationally recognised certification – the International Computer Driving License (ICDL)*.
“Our focus has long been to support previously disadvantaged individuals in the area of IT training and education, which would include schools, community centres and related projects,” said IS Marketing Manager Kate Michalaro. “Many of the schools we see have, through various sponsors, computer laboratories all ready to go, but no one to teach even the basics in PC use, Internet use and general IT. Many of the labs are standing idle with the learners desperate to learn and use the equipment. We want to change that so that these teachers can teach the learners who in turn will spread their knowledge into their communities.”
IS’ Saturday School is a proven means of teaching teachers. The next 30 week course will consist of teachers from schools in Tembisa, Alexandra, Diepsloot and Orange Farm.
“When we started on this project, the intention was to select students from these schools. However, we found that it would be far more sustainable and of greater value to start with the teachers so that when we do start taking on the kids in 2007, they will be able to go back to the labs and continue with self-learning. The teachers will be around to help the kids when they have questions or when they get stuck. In this way we are creating a sustainable training programme, instead of one-offs that soon lose their appeal and depth of knowledge.”
The excitement at the schools is running high. The kids know the teachers are going to school and everyone is looking forward to knowing how to get the most out of the technology.
IS also provides the Orange Farms schools with Internet connectivity.
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