London-based non-governmental organisation Digital Links plans to deploy 300 000 PCs into Africa`s education systems by 2010, providing 10 million pupils with access to IT.
CEO and founder David Sogan says in the past four years alone, the company, in collaboration with its African partners, has arranged more than 45 000 PCs for schools and communities in the Great Lakes Region as well Benin, Gambia, Ghana, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
"The partnerships have already given 1.5 million people access to IT," he says.
Sogan says the company relies on donations and working computers from UK companies. These are then refurbished for the distribution into schools.
He says computers are not given away, but are sold to local partners for a fair price. The local distribution partner also provides training and support.
Sogan says the company has recently signed a local partnership with Barclays Bank to help computerise schools in East Africa. Barclays MD Nick Mbuvi says the bank has spent lb50 000 rolling out PCs in education systems in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Long-term investment
It is a long-term investment for local partners, says Sogan, because it takes time for societies to develop into knowledge-based communities, which are responsible for creating vibrant economies.
"Knowledge-based economies thrive, as individuals have the capacity to create industry and development which brings in higher revenues."
Increased access to computers gives students in developing nations a global perspective, Sogan adds, which is usually a catalyst for positive change. "Young people have an incredible affinity with technology, giving them a platform to challenge issues existing in Africa."
Share