Bringing Technology to Rural schools in Zimbabwe

Thank you for your continued support of our ICT project. This project is our strategy for bridging the digital divide that exists  between urban and rural schools in Zimbabwe. To date, through your help we have worked in collaboration with our in-country partner, Computers For Zimbabwean Schools (CZWs) to successfully complete our pilot project. The pilot project saw us delivering five very successful computer training workshops to 25 teachers from three schools in the area. In addition, we joined forces with TELONE to bring the internet to Rimbi High. The workshops were a big success! Here is what some of the teachers had to say:

In Their Own Words By Two Teachers Who Attended The Workshops

 "I am benefitting so much through this programme since I was at ‘zero’ as far as Computer Literacy is concerned.  I was even shy to be associated with computers since I couldn’t even turn a computer on.  I am very thankful for Mr Mupinda, the instructor. He has taught us a lot within a short space of time. Microsoft Word – I am now able to type any document and can insert any symbols I want with ease.  He also taught us Microsoft Excel which is a very useful tool in teaching.  The summation in particular was so interesting, using average and the copying of formulas was just magical! "

"We thank you very much for providing the funds that enable us to attend computer training workshops.  We have benefited tremendously from these workshops.  We kindly ask you to help us with computers that way we can have hands-on training during the workshops. This would be of great help.  Thanks again for helping us."

In His Own Words By Rimbi High Headmaster

"We are grateful for the workshops that have been conducted by the Tekeshe Foundation with the help of the donors. The workshops have been a great eye opener! During one of these workshops, the instructor gave us an overview of the 21st century tools that CZWs offers for teaching. He demonstrated how to use a projector. This topic generated a lot of interest among the teachers. As the headmaster of Rimbi High school, I made a commitment to the teachers that I would purchase some projectors for our school.  I am also very grateful to the Tekeshe Foundation  and to the donors for bringing the internet to Rimbi High! "

Way Forward - Establishment Of An ICT center

Though this project has been a big success, the feedback that we received from the teachers is that limited access to computers is hindering their progress. To resolve this issue, The Tekeshe Foundation will establish an ICT center in Rimbi village.  

How Having The ICT Center Will Help
The center will benefit not only the teachers and students, but the entire Rimbi community. The ICT center will provide a hub where local residents can receive computer literacy skills and affordable internet access services, expanding the number of people the ICT centre supports. In addition, with significantly more computers available for students and teachers, the learning experience will be enhanced. The teachers will have a practical environment where they are able to acquire more computer skills. 

In my next progress report I will give you  a breakdown of how much it will cost to establish the ICT center. We are currently working with stakeholders in Rimbi village to see if we can use one of the vacant buildings. 

As you can see we have made a lot of progress making a difference in the lives of rural teachers and students. This could not be possible without your support. Thank you so much!!!

Best wishes,

Thelma