Corporate support for new paperless education system
In a bid to help the Gauteng Department of Basic Education achieve its goal of introducing a paperless education system, Samsung and Vodacom Business have donated information and communication technology (ICT) equipment and internet connectivity to Tlamatlama Primary School in Tembisa.
The donation took place on Wednesday last week.
At Tlamatlama Primary School, the launch of the Paperless Education System pilot project was led by the MEC for Human Settlements, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Jacob Mamabolo.
This was part of a commitment to providing technology and internet connectivity to schools across the province.
“This is an evolution in the education system. This project will now afford pupils from disadvantaged townships a chance to go to any developed country in the world and be able to survive and cope. They will be informed and thus be the next generation to positively shape the communities in which they grew up,” said MEC Mamabolo.
Mamabolo added that because of the project, the country was going to build communities with people who are dynamic, unique, skilled, efficient, competent, and who will be able to bring a better life and hope to the province.
MEC Mamabolo told the pupils of Tlamatlama Primary School to celebrate and appreciate that they have been selected for the project. He also commended the teachers who took the time to learn how to utilise the new technology.
“This will ensure that the project becomes a success and that teachers will ensure pupils use the equipment for what it is intended, thus enhancing access to quality education,” he added.
The project was in line with the Department of Basic Education’s ongoing drive to help provide ICT tools and internet connectivity to communities that do not have access.
By providing technology and access to internet services to improve the quality of education, network providers are assisting the department with the upliftment of pupils and teachers.
Vodacom’s chief officer of corporate affairs, Mr Maya Makanjee, said the key objective of the programme is to support the department in its education mandate by providing additional care and support to needy schools in South Africa.
“The programme ensures that pupils throughout the country have access to at least basic ICT tools to start off the new year.
“Our teachers achieve so much in what are often difficult circumstances, so one can just imagine what could be possible if they are supported with the latest equipment and training. It’s a privilege to be part of this initiative and to use Vodacom’s technology to unlock the true potential of pupils in Gauteng,” said Mr Makanjee.
Tlamatlama Primary School’s principal, Mr Steven Dire, said he was pleased to see that the children’s education was heading in the right direction.
“I am satisfied and encouraged that at least our children will be working towards global trends. They will be able to work even smarter,” he said.
