Nigel Primary School learners get cutting-edge computer centre

Nigel Primary School learners now have the world of learning at their fingertips after the school’s new computer centre opened.

Learners, teachers, school board members, NSB Motors Nigel and staff from the Isuzu Foundation gathered in the school hall on October 15 to officially open the first computer literate centre at the school.

Acting principal Sakhele Nkosi opened the proceedings by saying knowledge is power and shared his vision.

“Our goal is to empower young minds with the tools and skills they need to thrive in the digital age. Information and communication technology (ICT) has become integral to life, transforming how we communicate, work and learn. The computer centre will ensure our learners are equipped for the future.”

The computer centre was made possible by NSB Motors Nigel and the Isuzu Foundation, which also gave a donation to the school.

Thamsanqa Tembani from the Isuzu Foundation explained that Isuzu Foundation South Africa is a partnership with Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSA) and its dealer network.

The foundation focuses on supporting projects that address societal needs in the communities where the dealers operate and invest in skills development and education as part of their mandate.

“Dealerships are part of the community and are not only about selling motor vehicles but also supporting the community in which they operate. Technology is a key part of our world, and it is our responsibility to enable our children to use and understand technology,” he said.

Nic Bottari, who owns NSB Motors, concurred with Tembani’s statement and added that he attended Nigel Primary School and still recognises four teachers who taught him. His message was to love and protect children because they are the future.

Bottari handed over to Tinus Erasmus, the general manager at NSB Motors. He said they had operated in Nigel for 32 years and were privileged to make a change by opening up a new world for learners.

“Technology is crucial for young minds because it will continue to evolve. Exposing learners to technology at a young age allows them to learn, explore and grow in ways they only imagined. We are happy we can make a difference in the lives of the learners,” Erasmus said.

The school, which has 929 learners, will initially open the computer centre to the Grade Sevens but aims to introduce technology to all the learners eventually.

Nkosi was acknowledged for his boldness in approaching the Isuzu Foundation to ensure children are prepared for the future.

“Today marks a transition for the school. Through the computer centre, the school will become an ICT school where learners can remotely access curriculums.

“We are honoured and grateful for our sponsors and the support from the Isuzu Foundation. We are excited to move forward with the times,” Nkosi said.

The centre, equipped with the latest technology, will give the learners crucial computer literacy skills. The ribbon-cutting ceremony saw excitement and gratitude from learners, who were eager to explore their new resources.

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