Earlier today, the City’s Deputy Mayor, Alderman Eddie Andrews, joined the National Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, at the handover and launch of a cyber-lab at Oaklands High School in Lansdowne, identified by both the Mayor’s Office and the local Ward Councillor, Cllr Kleinschmidt. The handover is part of the Department’s broader initiative to ensure that all South Africans, especially those in rural and underprivileged communities have access to reliable, affordable, and secure ICT services. Read more below:
‘Today marks a new chapter in your education journey, one where you will take a step further into the digital world. The launch of this cyber-lab is not just about computers and the internet; it is about getting access to new opportunities, new skills, and a future that is full of possibilities,’ said Alderman Andrews in his welcoming remarks.
The handover is an extension of the government’s annual back-to-school initiative, which evaluates school preparedness, provides support to both educators and students, and tackles other urgent matters that need attention.
The School Cyber-Lab aims to introduce students to ICT infrastructure and opportunities, promoting the development of digital literacy and skills.
‘This isn’t simply about having access to new technologies, it is about making sure that no matter where you come from, you have the same opportunities as anyone else in the world,’ said Alderman Andrews, speaking to the students.
After receiving training the previous day, this handover and launch also saw the students completing a demo in website building.
‘We can already see the types of learning and skills development that students will have access to. This digital learning opportunity at your school will help you evolve, and with it, the opportunities for you, our future leaders, will only expand,’ said Alderman Andrews.
The launch of the cyber-lab was preceded by the planting of six trees at the school by Minister Malatsi, Deputy Mayor Andrews, Sub-council Chairperson Antonio Van der Rheede and the local Ward Councillor, Councillor Kleinschmidt. This tree planting formed part of the Department and State Information and Technology Agency (SITA’s) commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
