Two computer labs will be unveiled by deputy communications minister Stella Tembisa Ndabeni-Abrahams, at rural schools in Ixopo, KwaZulu-Natal, this week.
One of the labs was handed over to Mary Help Primary School this morning, while the second will be handed over to Welabasha High School, on Thursday, as part of the department's World Telecommunications & Information Society Day commemorations.
The two labs are equipped with 20 computers each, as well as VSAT Internet connectivity. According to department spokesperson Lerato Kojoana, the computer labs were built through state-owned signal distributor Sentech, which - through its CSI programme - is committed to deploying infrastructure in underdeveloped areas.
One of the schools was identified as a beneficiary through the Sentech CSI programme in line with the company's public service mandate, while the second school was sponsored as part of the World Telecommunications & Information Society Day interventions.
"The Sentech CSI model focuses on developing sustainable community-based programmes that are designed to uplift underserviced communities and bridge the technological divide," said Kojoana. "One of the objectives of the programme is to focus Sentech's resources in the ICT sector, with special emphasis on connecting institutions of learning."
The total project cost, which includes VSAT installation, network installation, electrical cabling, five-year uncapped VSAT service, chairs, painting and security reinforcement, is approximately R484 000 per school.
In addition to the two cyber labs, the DOC will sponsor 30 iPads and wireless connectivity to a third school, Nkomose Comprehensive High School, during the week.
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