Zealous Zoar Join the Khanya Winning Team

The 20 June saw the celebration of the much anticipated launch of the Khanya laboratory at Zoar EK Primary.  Situated in the remote town of Zoar in the Little Karoo, the laboratory heralds great change for the school and the community as it is drawn into the 21st century by technology and the Internet.

The launch marked a proud moment in the history of the school and Zoar Primary had invited a number of guests to witness the occasion.  Amongst these were two circuit managers from the South Cape Karoo EMDC, Mr Johannes and Mr Maarman;  John Scipio, Christelle Barkhuizen and Dennis Karelse, from the Khanya Project; Mr De Lange from the Municipal Management and principals from the surrounding schools.

Father Crossney delivered an opening prayer and a short Bible reading whereafter Mr Opperman, principal of Zoar EK Primary, expressed his gratitude to the Khanya Project for investing in his school and its learners and, through the establishment of the Khanya laboratory, ending their relative isolation. 

Technology has become an integral part of the world in which these learners live, in which they have to carve a future for themselves and Mr Johannes urged learners and educators to master and implement ICT skills as soon as possible.

Mr Bertus Basson, Khanya’s facilitator at the school and the final speaker, inspired guests with a witty breakdown of the letters of KHANYA – Knowledge, Hope, Adventure, Necessity, Youthful enthusiasm and an A-team – qualities he suggested Khanya both brings to and inspires in the schools in which they are involved.

After an entertaining dance performed by the learners, the laboratory was officially opened with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by Mr Johannes.

Zoar EK Primary is taking baby steps as they traverse the intricacies of the information superhighway.  With the tools they have been given, the training they are undergoing and their enthusiasm for the process, these baby steps will rapidly become confident strides and leaps as they experience the new dimensions technology can add to their lives.