Computers
and technology play an increasingly significant role in the lives of young
people, both for education and for personal development. Unfortunately, computer
access remains a huge challenge for many youth and learners in South Africa,
particularly those who live in previously disadvantaged areas.

Tibias Tikka and John Hult with learners during computer lesson at Phumlani Primary School.
Star
For Life in conjunction with Chalmers University of Technology and Computer
Education South Africa (CESA) have implemented an initiative whereby computers
and training are provided to learners and teachers in in rural areas. Phumlani Primary School in a
small township just outside Hluhluwe town, was the first recipient of these
computers in 2013. On Tuesday, 6 August 2013
four computers were donated to the school and volunteers from Chalmers
University conducted training workshops for the teachers and installed the
computers. The principal at Phumlani Primary School, Mrs Gumede expressed her
gratitude and noted the usefulness of the computers; “Words cannot express the
way I feel. I have seen some very useful programmes in these computers; these
machines will make teaching and learning to be much easier.”  Phumlani Primary School learners with Chalmers University Students. From left; The school Principal Mrs Gumede, Miss Buthelezi, Jeniffer Panditha,
Tobias Tikka, John Hult and Miss P Ziqubu.
Special
thanks are extended to the volunteers of Chalmers University for their time and
expertise in the training and installation of the computers; Jeniffer Panditha,
John Hult and Tobias Tikka. “Teachers and learners were excited about this,
some of the learners touched the mouse for the first time today and to see
those smiles on their faces was remarkable”. Said Tobias Tikka.
This
initiative will continue to other schools that needs assistance until the 18th
of August 2013.
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