KEETMANSHOOP – To improve computer literacy, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency donated 19 computers to the youth of the //Kharas region.
Governor Aletha Frederick said, “the challenge of harnessing technology for all-inclusive and innovative teaching and learning is critical.”
She explained that she made efforts to secure computers after learning from the head of the Keetmanshoop Multi-Purpose Youth Resource Centre that students need access to computers and computer training at the facility, which closed doors because of worn-out computers. for the learners and students in Krönlein and Tseiblaagte suburbs.
Frederick said her office approached TIKA for assistance to the learners and students in Krönlein and Tseiblaagte suburbs, after learning TIKA’s humble deeds in
Namibia.
“After waiting patiently for acceptable bureaucratic processes for almost close to a year, they (TIKA) have approved the sponsorship of a new Computer Laboratory at the Keetmanshoop Multi-Purpose Youth Centre – much to our delight, “ she added.
She also reported delightfully that TIKA has installed at least 19 new computers with 19 new chairs and in addition has done minor renovations to the computer lab.
The governor added that learners will now have access to an inviting conducive environment to resume their computer training programmes.
Frederick expressed the hope that the learners, who were in need of services at the centre, will cherish this excellent learning environment made possible by TIKA.
“I hope you will work hard and get more knowledge and skills and contribute your share to the development of the //Kharas region,” she concluded.
In his speech, TIKA country coordinator, Anydin Apaydin, said after being informed by the governor during a previous meeting about a lack of access to computers among the youth, students, and unemployed adults as one of the region’s noticeable limitations, they embarked on a journey to equip the centre.
“We at TIKA believe that education is the most reliable way of developing skills which will help people improve their quality of life,” he added.
Apaydin reasoned that because of computers and IT, teaching has become much easier and more interesting than before and also that distance learning is no longer confined to classrooms.
“We are all aware that lack of basic computer skills or being computer illiterate significantly reduces one’s chances of finding employment, therefore, we are certain that this computer lab will give all users the fundamental computer skills they need to compete in the global economy,” he said.
The TIKA official expressed their gratitude towards Frederick and her team for all their contributions and efforts toward the successful completion of this project.
Centre head, Annelien van Wyk expressed their appreciation for the initiative, which now gives learners access to more computers for homework.
“We can now start training these youngsters in basic and advanced computer skills as well as digital marketing, in the process empowering them for the outside employment market,” she added.
– sklukowski@nepc.com.na