Joza gets new digital resource centre
In a bid to extend the reach of its resources, Rhodes University Community Engagement Division’s pioneering digital storytelling project, the Social Innovation Hub, will open the doors of its new Joza Youth Hub office on 5 February.
Opening an additional, semi-fixed lab in Joza is a key step in improving access to the internet and technology in areas of the city that have previously struggled to maintain access to these resources.
“Joza Youth Hub is overjoyed to have Community Engagement’s semi-fixed lab, as this will show our community that digital transformation is possible, and that it is there to benefit the people of Makhanda,” says Nosi Nkwinti, chairperson of the Joza Youth Hub.
Internet and technological devices are no longer a privilege nor a novelty in our digitised society and learning how to use these tools is vital for success in the job market, as well as in basic and higher education spaces. The Social Innovation Hub hopes to help people in Grahamstown become familiar with using technology: this can help build the confidence needed to acquire new skills, network with others in their community and start innovative projects that can improve our communities.
The Social Innovation Hub is a digital storytelling and literacy resource centre that facilitates improved computer skills and overall confidence using technology by members of the community, including Makana residents, school learners, students and Rhodes staff.
The Hub will run various short courses targeting a range of demographics, including primary school learners, Early Childhood Development (ECD) practitioners, teachers and high school learners. Learners will be taught computer skills that can help them to complete school assignments and additionally, be introduced to the world of computer programming through Google’s Computer Science First project.
Teachers of nearby schools are encouraged to join the sixweek digital literacy course as this will teach them skills that will improve efficiency, save time and energy and ultimately result in a better learning experience for youth. Such skills include using Microsoft Excel to create class lists and using the internet to find lesson plans.
“The semi-fixed lab is opening doors for students in the community and also teachers who would like to enhance their skills in computer literacy,” says Toby Gedze, the lab manager of the Social Innovation Hub in Joza. “It’s a great stepping stone for everyone involved, including myself, as it is a step closer to community cohesion.”
The new Joza office is one of three Social Innovation Hub labs currently operating. The fixed lab is located at Rhodes and welcomes members of the community to get in touch and use the resources on offer to hold workshops and training sessions, either in the vibrant workspace on 5 Prince Alfred Street or to run a ‘pop-up lab’ wherever you need the equipment to be.