Satellite education for schools

Themba Gadebe

15 May 2006 Mindset Cabanga has installed satellite dishes, computers and television sets in 50 schools, bringing multimedia educational resources to children in four provinces. Mindset Network - the satellite television network responsible for the project � will deliver free primary school educational materials to selected schools in KwaZulu Natal, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape and Limpopo through satellite technology. Mindset Cabanga (isiZulu for "think" ) is aimed at improving mathematics, science and technology education in under-resourced schools. The project was officially launched by education minister Naledi Pandor at Riversands Primary on Friday. Pandor said it was her intention to use technology to respond to "many gaps in the education system." "Technology is flexible, adaptable and potentially user friendly," she said. "Cabanga resources offer a teacher improved competence and a child opportunities for self teaching," she said. It is broadcast at various times to suit schools and also allows for home viewing. The first channel of the Mindset Network, Activate, broadcasts on DStv channel 82. Also at the launch was the United State�s acting ambassador Don Teitelbaum, as the project was funded by the Africa Education Initiative and USAID�s Global Development Alliance. Approximately R22 million was set aside for this initiative with additional funds coming from the private sector. Teitelbaum said that the quality educational resources to learners and educators offered by the project content�s could bridge years of neglect and literally leapfrog schools from resources scarce environment to exciting technological advance centres for learning. This project will also be launched in 20 primary schools in Kenya next year with the content provided in Swahili. Source: BuaNews