MTN and Thinta Thinta Telecoms (T3) have launched multimedia centres in two schools in the Ugu region in KwaZulu-Natal as part of the MTN Foundation`s Schools Connectivity Programme.
The programme aims to improve the quality of education and increase access to ICT in rural schools.
The companies contributed R400 000 for the installation of 10 PCs, a three-in-one printer, scanner and copier, a GPRS modem, a video machine and satellite decoder and dish at both Inkosi Umdibaniso Comprehensive School and Bheki High School.
Two teachers from each school were given IT training before the installation of the centres. These teachers will train other teachers to educate learners.
Deputy minister of communications Roy Padayachie opened the centres.
Speaking at the launch this week, T3 CEO Bule Mhlongo said the event was another milestone in the quest to bring previously disadvantaged and commercially disenfranchised people into the mainstream economy.
T3 has previously committed to ensuring that by the year 2010 every school child in the Ugu District will have an e-mail address.
"This is a tall order, we are aware, but we are confident that through appropriate forward thinking and innovative strategies such as these, we are guaranteed success," said Mhlongo.
"The schools will become community multimedia centres where a variety of services, not currently offered in rural communities, will be available after school and during holidays."
The centres will operate as mini Internet caf'es and will be open on weekends and school holidays for students to research projects and for the community, at a reduced rate. "Funds raised from the caf'e will take care of maintenance and the running of the project to ensure successful results," she said.
Mhlongo challenged businesses in the district to start "fostering partnerships like these" to ensure the people of the Ugu District Municipality are given access to technology.
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