Fintech specialist e4 has built a computer centre at Diepdale Secondary School in Soweto to promote IT youth skills.
The new centre was opened at a ceremony on 7 May.
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To build the centre, e4 provided resources for a full renovation.
The resources included aesthetic upgrades, a smartboard, air conditioners, and 33 computers for the learners and teachers.
“People and technology are at the core of our business,” said e4’s CFO, Adri Führi in a statement.
“We must look both inside and outside the organisation to support our strategic growth. Enabling both the development of school and community technology skills enables us and other organisations in our industry to remain relevant as part of the 4th industrial revolution.”
e4 computer centre to promote IT youth development
To build the centre, e4 partnered with the Melisizwe Computer Lab project. The non-profit project commits to build computer labs at schools in need and provide IT skills training.
“The stark reality is that we live in a country where youth unemployment is endemic,” said Melisizwe’s founder and director, Candice Kern-Thomas.
“We also live in a digital age, yet young people are still matriculating with no form of computer literacy which further exacerbates the problem.”
“We have seen lives transformed through initiatives like this and are so grateful to sponsors like e4 for supporting our vision and helping us bridge the digital divide.”
Diepdale Secondary School’s principal, Mr Munyakisi was responsible for advocating for the school to receive the centre.
The centre will let students learn Computer Applications Technology (CAT) as part of their curriculum. Going forward, students can matriculate with computer skills that will allow them to participate in the digital economy.
The centre’s key sponsors and other corporates will maintain it. MICT SETA will provide training for the students and teachers.
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Feature image: Supplied/John Hogg
