The WCG eCentre in Kayamandi is bringing opportunities for growth
The WCG eCentre Programme in Kayamandi, Stellenbosch has made an impact on the lives of the community. Access to information and communication technologies (ICT) has brought with it an opportunity for personal growth and socio-economic upliftment.
The fast-growing township of Kayamandi has always been characterised by the immense poverty of the people living there. The area has seen a lot of improvements over the last few years. Recognising a need by the community for access to online services the Kayamandi eCentre first opened its doors on 2 December 2015. The eCentre has seen a steady increase in user numbers from 385 in 2015 to roughly 3 000 in 2019, with recorded monthly sessions of up to 2 094.
The eCentre operates from the Kayamandi Library and gives children, youth and adult alike easy access to information and communication technology (ICT). ICT is a term used to describe a range of technologies that include computers, cell phones and the internet, as well as the various services and applications associated with them. The access to ICT brings opportunities and possibilities for personal growth to rural communities.
Users have access to a range of services and training.
Services
- Internet access (45 minutes a session).
- E-mail facilities.
- Help setting up e-mail accounts.
- Online job searches and applications.
- Computer assistance.
- Free printing (maximum 10 pages a day).
Training
- e-Learner: comes with an entry-level accredited certificate.
- International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL): seven-month accredited course.
- Informal computer training.
The Kayamandi eCentre manager, Nontsikelelo Songelwa says: “The eCentre has made a difference in the lives of the people of the community as many have gained computer skills that helped them find better jobs”. She added, “Students also have access to everything they might need for school”.
Songelwa is happy to say that the Kayamandi eCentre, has made a difference in the life of many people. As for one user, Ntombozuko Hlaleleni, access to ICT at the centre helped her to find employment. With the help of the staff, Hlaleleni compiled her CV, searched and applied for jobs online. Hlaleleni is now working in her community at the Kayamandi Clinic.
The WCG eCentre Programme and the Kayamandi eCentre provide the local rural communities with easy access to computers and a wide range of online services. These services open up opportunities for people that normally would not have the advantage to use computers to access much needed services.
Visit the Kayamandi eCentre housed in the Kaymandi Library in Hani Road, where trained staff dedicated to the upliftment and growth of the community will assist you.
Contact the eCentre
Tel: 021 889 5644
E-mail: kayamandi.ecentre@gmail.com
More about Kayamandi
Kayamandi is a developing township in Stellenbosch. The township was founded a part of the increased segregation during the apartheid regime. Since the 1950’s it has been home to the influx of labourers mostly from the Eastern Cape, looking for work on farms in Stellenbosch and the surrounding areas.
