Potchefstroom now has an open source Internet caf'e, aimed at growing open source awareness and availability in the local community.
The Open Caf'e, launched on 21 October, was founded by software solutions company Reedflute, and also received sponsorship from the Shuttleworth Foundation.
Initial feedback to the caf'e has been positive and it has already provided a platform for local open source initiatives, says project co-ordinator Anna Dani. "The idea was to set up a venue that would encourage people to start projects themselves.
"The Open Caf'e initiative also runs various community development projects, like ArtMarketOnline for the local artists, and one for young programmers. People using the caf'e have also set up a small project to inform people about setting up a small business."
Discussions are also under way regarding further co-operation with the Shuttleworth Foundation on open source projects, says Dani. "We would like to see open source computer labs set up in local schools through [the Shuttleworth Foundation`s] TuXlab programme. Nothing has been finalised though, it`s still just an idea."
The main aim of the caf'e is to grow awareness regarding open source software, and to provide basic training to users, says Dani. "People are often ignorant when it comes to computing and I think it is important for people to know more about open source.
"We also wanted to teach people to connect and share ideas, and basically try to be as creative as possible."
Share