Five additional laptops added to lab
From left to right back: Luvuyo Kelepu (Sinetemba), Past President David Reade, Rotarian Eugene Herbst, Middle Past President Johan Stofberg, Norman Chapman (Nashua). Front: Mandisa Tani (Sinetemba) & President Stephné Botha.
A couple of years ago, the Rotary Club of Worcester embarked on a mission to bridge the digital divide for children at Sinetemba, a registered charity that operates in Zweletemba, by establishing a computer lab. Recognizing the crucial role of technology in education, the Rotary Club initially installed five computer stations, creating a foundation for these young minds to explore, learn, and grow.
However, as the number of students utilizing the lab grew, so did the need for more resources. Understanding the importance of providing adequate facilities, the Rotary Club of Worcester, with the generous collaboration of Nashua Breedevalley, Worcester Round Table 68 and the ADT Fidelity Group, expanded the lab’s capacity. On Thursday, May 22, an additional five laptops were added to the computer lab, doubling the number of workstations to ten.
This expansion marks a significant milestone for Sinetemba and the community of Zweletemba. The upgraded computer lab, also equipped with internet access and a printer, has made completing homework assignments more accessible and efficient for the children. The ability to conduct research online, type and print assignments, and develop digital literacy skills is invaluable in today’s tech-driven world.
With ten workstations available, more children can simultaneously access educational resources, participate in digital learning activities, and gain essential computer skills that will serve them well in their future studies and careers.
As we celebrate this achievement, it’s essential to keep the momentum going. Sustaining the computer lab and ensuring its continued success will require ongoing support from the community, local businesses, and organizations. Regular maintenance, updates to software and hardware, and training for both students and teachers will be crucial to maximizing the lab’s potential.
Furthermore, expanding educational programs and integrating digital literacy into the curriculum can enhance the impact of the computer lab. Workshops and internet safety sessions are just a few ways to build on the foundation that has been established.