WiMax benefits local school
The school’s computer lab, run by Ekasi iT Solutions, is used to train learners in valuable computer skills. The lab was connected to WiMAX in order to provide the school with a much needed technology boost.
The installment of WiMAX – a new, high speed technology which allows data to be transported wirelessly over a far greater distance than existing technologies – allows the learners of St Martins School to get access to the World Wide Web with a high-speed connection.
MWEB is planning on replicating the success of this WiMAX project by connecting other schools in other previously disadvantaged areas.
Duma Sithebe, Principal of St Martins says, “We are very excited to be a part of the MWEB WiMAX trial. This places the school at the forefront of new technology and allows our learners to be exposed to much more information and educational resources, and teachers can also use the computer lab to do subject research.”
As part of the trial, the school has also been given access to MWEB’s online learning suite of products. These include Learning & Library, South African Encyclopedia and Microsoft Encarta. Learning & Library provides online help with curriculum or project based questions, as well as online textbooks, homework support, subject experts and online tests.
The multimedia South African Encyclopedia (SAE) is South Africa’s most comprehensive local content encyclopedia offering recent information on a wide range of topics, while Microsoft Encarta Premium Online is a comprehensive online encyclopedia, atlas and multi-media library.
Rudi Jansen, CEO of MWEB says that the company is passionate about empowering communities and believes that technology is a key factor in achieving this. “At MWEB we are committed to bridging the digital divide and we truly believe that technology has the potential to develop and improve the lives of people in these communities.”
MWEB already operates a WiMAX network in Namibia and hopes to be awarded a commercial frequency licence for WiMAX when ICASA allocates the remaining spectrum early next year.
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