A bold apostle of new media technology is looking to provide all schools in South Africa – even those in remote rural areas – with access to the internet.
A bold apostle of new media technology is looking to provide all schools in South Africa – even those in remote rural areas – with access to the internet.
Ian Harrison, CEO of The Content Company, plans to recruit private companies and government departments to help him achieve his ambition to reach half of the estimated 18 000 schools in South Africa without access to the internet over the next two years.
Shortlisted for an AfricaCom award in the category of Best Solution for Rural Services last year, Harrison's Streetwise internet kit is designed to overcome many of the problems that have previously prevented rural schools from accessing the goldmine of information on the net.
“Streetwise doesn't need broadband, good access to power, decent infrastructure or significant technical support," said Harrison. "The devices have been designed to operate under the worst of conditions and, because they communicate via GPRS, they work everywhere.”
GPRS uses radio-broadcast technology to send and receive data more quickly, and across a wider geographical range. Streetwise is an internet-access package that comprises a basic terminal that looks like a miniature laptop; a GPRS connection and, through the Streetwise portal, a selection of online content, including encyclopaedias, multilingual dictionaries, e-mail, the latest news, curriculum-based worksheets and other teaching and learning tools.
The fact that the Streetwise portal was limited to e-mail and specified websites made it faster and ensured children were not exposed to inappropriate content, said Harrison, who explained that the Content Company was constantly adding more content.
One of the latest additions was a joint effort between Streetwise and loveLife, that provides information on HIV-prevention and testing, sexual health rights, and even highlights issues such as self-esteem – which they believe can help to curb irresponsible sexual activity, a major factor in the spread of the virus.
Streetwise kits are tailored for various requirements. The single home unit costs R2700 excluding VAT. The Streetwise Resource Centre Kit comprises 10 Streetwise terminals, a printer, an extra printer cartridge, a supply of paper and USB memory sticks. The data and hosting costs for 12 months as well as delivery is included in the purchase price of R39 950, excluding VAT. There are currently no Streetwise terminals in the Eastern Cape.
