Introduction of wi-fi in Western Cape schools welcomed

Lusanda Bill
10 March 2014

The Western Cape Department of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism will be introducing high speed wi-fi to schools in Atlantis and Delft. 

Western Cape MEC of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism Alan Winde said this will help in research for online projects.

During his budget speech last week MEC Winde allocated over R52 billion to education.  Ministerial Spokesperson Bronwynne Jooste said a pilot project is being conducted through NPO’s and is a testing model through several schools in the province. 

Jooste said this project is part of the Western Cape government’s broadband initiative and part of a bigger plan in connecting all residence affordable high speed internet.  

Meanwhile the Western Cape Education Department said the introduction of wi-fi in schools will make it easier for learners to access digital learning materials especially in poor communities. 

WCED Spokesperson Paddy Attwell said the department has published a request for information to explore providing tablets to schools. 

“We are also sourcing and developing digital resources to support teaching and learning.  We expect that education will move in a whole new era as we expand access to broadband in our communities” Attwell added.