Mmatope Primary School
Technology has changed the face of the workplace: this puts pressure on learners to have some computer training by the time they start high school. At tertiary level every student must be computer literate in order to gain access to a wide spectrum of information e.g.; their varsity courses, careers and available bursaries. Knowing this, TFMC could not refuse when approached by Mmatope Primary School to help build a computer Centre for the school.
Mmatope Primary envisaged a computer centre that could accommodate forty learners, and they discussed their vision with Bertie van Jaarsveld, Project Coordinator-NER Region. B&S Small Works, a construction company appointed as builders, donated some building material for this good cause. As the excitement started to mount, the parents also contributed by donating some funds towards the project. The school principal agreed to donate some of his labour hours, and so the work began.
The school is situated in Jericho, a small town in the extreme north-east of the North West Province where technology is just a word in the dictionary. The learners, teachers and the community waited eagerly as the building took shape. It was refreshing to come across teachers and learners who are readily responsive to technological advancements.
The construction took longer than anticipated to complete. Because of the nature of the project great care was taken to do it right. When the building was completed, new computers were installed, each computer with its own electrical connection, and new desks were donated.
On September 14, 2007, the building was officially handed over. For the learners and teachers there was a whole new world waiting to be discovered. For TFMC it was an important milestone, being able to increase the pool of learners pursuing careers in IT. The community, neighbouring schools, the media and representatives from the Department of Education all graced this day of festivities with their presence.
The commemorative plaque was unveiled by Tshidi Lesutu (TFMC Transformation Executive), and a representative from the Department of Education. Speakers from all walks of life talked about the importance of integrating IT into the educational syllabus.
Through this centre, Mmatope Primary will be able to connect with other schools in the country and the whole world. TFMC is proud to contribute to such ventures and we remain committed to doing our bit in improving the lives of disadvantaged South Africans.
Mrs Ramagofu (School Principal), Ms MP Mokhutle (Department of Education) and Tshidi Lesutu (TFMC)
