As the sun rose on Thursday morning, August 27, Shakaskraal Primary stretched their arms out in welcoming and opened their eyes to the school’s first solar-powered computer lab and learning centre.
The lab is equipped with 21 computers all fully installed with software ranging from Microsoft Word to Powerpoint, a digital overhead projector, colour printer and complete with full internet access.
The solar-powered lab is designed and manufactured by owners of Give IT Back, Jonathan and Marisa Michael, and sponsored by Johannesburg-based company Easy Pay at an estimated value of R500m.
The lab will benefit the more than 1000 children at Shakaskraal Primary, who will be taught skills in word processing, data capture, visual presentation and online research – essential tools in the modern world of business.
“We wanted to provide our children with something that would not hold back their right to be educated. These solar labs mean they can still learn even when load shedding turns off the power,” said Jonathan Michael, director of Give IT Back.
Michael said there are 30 labs across South Africa, with the one at Shakaskraal being the ninth in KZN. According to Michael, the labs are guaranteed for three years and the solar-charged batteries come with a 15 year lifespan, while the panels themselves last for up to 25 years.
“The plan is to give all children a fighting chance when it comes to their education,” said Michael, who stressed the importance of computer literacy for all people competing in today’s digital market.
Principal of the school, Julian Govender, said that the donation to Shakaskraal was very generous and that the lab would provide some much needed aid to the school’s IT and learning facilities.
“We have been given a wonderful gift by Give IT Back and Easy Pay, which will really help our children on the road to computer literacy,” said Govender, who said he is excited that pupils will now have access to digital learning while the solar panels ensure they are being environmentally responsible.
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