A new mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) is being launched by Van Schaik Bookstore and is specifically for students.
The MVNO forms part of the new Van Schaik Rewards app which provides students with data, freebies, deals, news and access to free WiFi and WhatsApp, in exchange for data on their buying habits in-store as well as their mobile usage.
Students will have to buy a SIM card from the bookstore, and then once it is inserted into an Android phone, download the app from the Play Store. The SIM functions like a normal SIM.
To qualify, students need to be a current Van Schaik Rewards member or they need to spend R750 or more at the bookstore. They will then receive a SIM card with 300MB of data.
On installation of the app, students will be requested to enter their personal set of interests and preferences, such as fashion, sport, recipes, celeb news and information related to what they are studying.
Users will be given free access to WhatsApp, free WiFi at Always On Hotspots, and other specials if they spend a minimum of R99 on airtime or data every 30 days.
Accounts can be topped up at any Pick n Pay or Van Schaik store, or by using the points they earn using the app.
Points are earned for interacting with adverts, among other ways. The app will let advertisements appear on users' lock screens and if they swipe to unlock the screen and watch or read the content, they will earn points.
The MVNO was developed through a partnership with mobile network enabler MVN-X, which is providing all the infrastructure and technical support. Similarly to other local MVNOs, the network is built on Cell C infrastructure.
The Van Schaik MVNO will be the seventh MVN-X has introduced to the market.
Steve Bailey, CEO of MVN-X, says: "The student market in South Africa has largely been underserved in the telecommunications field. Students have specific needs, and we are hoping this new venture both meets and exceeds those needs. This is another great example of the agility of the MVNO - being able to meet a specific set of needs for a specific market."
A range of MVNOs has launched this year that cater to specific groups of people.
This includes the Afrikaans-only BokSel, which was launched in May by radio personality Rennert van Rensburg, and religious PSB Network launched in September backed by Prophet Shepherd Bushiri Ministries.
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