Launched in October 2017, the Chintsa East Community Learning Centre – a containerised Computer Hub and Book Exchange – is located in the heart of Chintsa East and offers Chintsa residents - including approximately 5 000 socially and economically disadvantaged children, youth and adults - access to internet and communication technology, and books.

 

The Centre aims to provide affordable access to digital technology and competencies with a specific focus on:

• Basic computer literacy;

• Increased academic achievement (e.g. through online maths programmes)

• Searching and applying for employment opportunities;

• Searching and applying for further education and training and bursaries

Furthermore, the centre aims to support literacy through the book exchange.

 

The Centre is a partnership initiative between African Angels Trust (lead organisation), Friends of Chintsa (current implementing organisation), local community members and Great Kei Municipality.  It is managed by a board consisting of two active Chintsa residents (Honey Pakamile and Zingisile Ngamntwini), a representative of SANCO - the locally elected non-political leadership body (Siphiwo Gwavu), a representative of African Angels Trust (Lou Billet – current chair), a representative of Friends of Chintsa (Catherine Andersson – paid operations manager) and a representative of the Great Kei Local Municipality (tbc).  No board members except Catherine are reimbursed for their time to ensure the smooth running of the centre.  Computer literacy and information technology graduate – Ndwekazi Batyi - is currently employed full time at the hub to provide support and training.

 

To reduce our environmental impact and increase our power autonomy we are aiming to build a roof to install a solar power system (materials already secured include solar panels, batteries, roof sheeting and trusses at cost).  The resulting covered space in between the two containers will also allow for a sheltered meeting and training space.  We are also aiming to connect to Eskom (as a backup) and install guttering and tanks for rainwater harvesting. 

 

Our major supporter to date has been Express Petroleum who has funded most of the current infrastructure and laptops.  Vodacom, through their Change the World (CTW) initiative are also going to be a key funder from November 2017 – October 2018.  The Centre’s financials are freely available to everyone so please contact us for more details.

 

​This is a really exciting time for the Centre as possibilities are limitless! If you would like to support this initiative with your time, skills and/or resources please contact us!  If you would like to make a much financial donation, please click ‘Donate’ now and remember to use ‘CECLC’ as a reference.