National E-Learning Programme accelerates in KwaZulu-Natal

Dimension Data extended its groundbreaking E-Learning Centre initiative in KwaZulu-Natal, with the successful launch of the Dambuza E-Learning Centre today. The launch is in partnership with the Dambuza Community Development Trust.

Dimension Data has established a computer skills training centre and a community bakery for the benefit of the Dambuza community. The company has, in addition, established two e-learning centres, at Kwapata High School and Nyonithwele High School, for the benefit of high school learners and teachers in Dambuza.

These two schools in Dambuza will gain access to premium technology applications to support the school curriculum in this amazing demonstration of the power of ICT to reach out and transform lives.

The Dambuza centre will benefit 350 learners to support the traditional curriculum for six essential subject streams: mathematics, physical science, English home language, English first additional language, life science and accounting. The programme covers the curriculum for Grades 10, 11 and 12. The E-Learning Programme is expected to accelerate the pass rate in these subjects and dramatically improve the quality and depth of secondary education in these areas.

The new e-learning centres, hosted at Kwapata High School and Nyonithwele High School, are equipped with a central server, wireless network and dropdown screens in every classroom, trolley machines that include a computer, projector, DVD player, wireless router and amplified speakers, and free Internet connectivity.

The teachers at each school have been trained to use the system, so it can be utilised to the utmost and its benefits reach as many learners as possible. Login credentials have been created for all educators and loaded with content to assist them to deliver content-rich, challenging and interesting learning material to students.

The programme harnesses the capabilities of the Internet and multimedia technology to bring the subject curriculum to life, reinforce lessons, and promote active learning. Lessons and workbooks for each subject are accessed via the computer and projected on to the dropdown screen. The system delivers a complete, multidimensional and rich learning experience, incorporating audio and visual material. All e-learning content is endorsed by the Department of Basic Education.

Speaking at the event, Zandile Mbele, Transformation Executive, Dimension Data, said: “Dimension Data is not just about business, it's also about using our technology to enable education to empower young people to go out and fulfil their potential, bringing their skills and experience back to their communities and inspiring others to do the same.”

Since the first pilot programmes were introduced into 14 schools in Gauteng in 2006, the E-Learning Programme has delivered incredible results and given expression to Dimension Data's Socio Economic Development programme. The company also launched the E-Learning Programme is Vukuzakhe Secondary, Menzi Secondary and Qhilika Secondary Schools in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, in June 2011.

Since the inception of the E-Learning Programme, 25 700 learners from beneficiary schools nationally have benefited. The launch was attended by the Minister of Higher Education, Prof Blade Nzimande, and other high profile representatives of government and the community.