24 Sep 2020

Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) broadcasting and corporate communications director, Mr Aaron Nyelesi, has called upon stakeholders to support a school computerisation and internet connectivity project.

Addressing Southern District councillors on September 23, Mr Nyelesi said the project was underway in the district, adding that ICT needs assessment was ongoing to establish status of capacities in targeted schools.

“We have done the school computerisation and internet connectivity projects in Ghanzi, Tsabong and Mabutsane. We are planning to enroll it to the Southern District in the 2021/22 financial year. 

The project entails connecting internet, upgrading of networks, providing tablets to pupils as well as engaging an IT officer to teach the learners and staff about the use of such equipment,” he said.

Therefore, he noted that it was crucial for stakeholders to work together to ensure that the equipment was utilised and protected.

He said the expectation was for the three ministries involved to support the initiative and ensure safety of the equipment.

He further called on council structures to ensure that schools were ready for the technology to ensure smooth operation.

On the issue of expensive internet, Mr Nyelesi said even though there had been such concerns, the issue was debatable.

He said the challenge emanated from a wide range of network covering a small population.

“The challenge is that the network is wide yet covering a small population, therefore the cost of providing the service is high,” he said.

For their part, councillors commended BOCRA for the project, which they said would enhance education in primary schools.

However, they raised concerns about poor network and exorbitant pricing.

They also questioned the role of BOCRA in ensuring that private conversations were not interrupted.

However, Mr Nyelesi assured them that no one was allowed to intercept private cellphone conversations without a court order.

“Technically it is possible but practically it is difficult,” he said. Ends