November 2022.

Loeriesfontein High School learners, who take Computer Applications Technology (CAT) as a subject, are thrilled to have received new laptop computers, which will no doubt make their studies a bit easier. The equipment was donated to grade 10 learners to enhance their computer skills, which will benefit them when they enter tertiary education and the workforce.

Funded by local wind farms, Loeriesfontein Wind Farm and Khobab Wind Farm, the 18 laptop computers were funded as part of their ongoing support of STEM Education (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) in this Northern Cape community.

“Our goal is to help the learners acquire computer skills, which is critical given that we are living in the digital and information age. Moreover, it could potentially open avenues for future employment in companies that require computer-savvy employees,” said Vanessa Fredericks, Economic Development Manager for Khobab and Loeriesfontein Wind Farms.

Introduced to Loeriesfontein High School only this year, CAT is an important subject that equips learners with new technology skills required in today’s world and is available to learners in grades 10 to 12. In addition to this, the provision of laptop computers will increase the overall access to education, reduce the cost of instruction, help create learner-centred education, and improve the quality of education through interactive learning.

“When students use any learning technology, such as a laptop computer, they become active learners, in charge of their learning activities,” added Fredericks.

A key component of the Loeriesfontein Wind Farm and Khobab Wind Farm’s socioeconomic development programmes is education, particularly in the fields of mathematics, science, and technology.