Westcon sponsors computer lab

By Staff Writer for Westcon-Comstor
Johannesburg, 03 Sep 2007

Westcon SA, the network technology distributor, has donated a laboratory to a needy West Rand school via the Adopt-a-School Foundation, fitted with theft-resistant desktops.

Speaking at the Thuthuzekani Primary School, in Krugersdorp, on Friday, Westcon SA CEO Jacques Malherbe said the computer laboratory consists of 20 networked Intel Dot Station computers. The PCs have licences to use a number of educational software programs approved by the Gauteng Department of Education.

"The significance of the computers that we have installed at this school is that they cannot be stolen," he said. The hard drive unit of the computer is built into the screen; therefore, the only external device is the keyboard.

"Should someone attempt to steal the keyboard, they would have to cut the cable, which basically renders it useless," Malherbe added.

Theft of equipment from school laboratories is a major impediment to rolling out IT at all state schools by 2013. Industry sources say in Gauteng, more is spent on securing computer labs from thieves - and increasingly, armed robbers - than is invested in technology to fill the IT learning centres.

In this instance, Westcon SA set up the entire laboratory, providing desks, security devices, burglar-proofing for the classroom and all network requirements. "We then trained three teachers as well, so we can ensure the learners will derive the maximum possible benefit from the laboratory," added Malherbe.

Malherbe said the Adopt-a-School Foundation was launched during 2001 to facilitate and manage the flow of resources and funds to those schools that need it. "The computer lab was one of three priority needs identified at Thuthuzekani Primary School."

The school has more than 1 300 learners, which means there are roughly 43 learners per class.

"We are very proud of our association with the Adopt-a-School Foundation, as it allows us to make a meaningful contribution to society through a managed and well-researched approach," he noted.