Kids have really taken to the laptops. Obviously some are better than others but we're taking that to our advantage. We're using those students to help teach. At one point the teachers even had to tell the students to go home after school since they wouldn't leave the room. Yesterday we created little biographies with their pictures and some basic information. We're hoping to set up the printers on the servers so we can decorate the room a bit with their work.
Teachers...
The teachers at Mmaweshi have had a chance to learn the basics. They're a bit hesitant about the laptops since they're new but they see the benefit in the laptops for the children so they're fairly eager to make this work. Yesterday they spent some time on the Write Activity and Record Activity documenting some goals and projects they want to see at their school. Hopefully, with some multimedia and better communication we may be able to help connect them with outside funding. The best part is their willingness to put forth the work to make their goals happen. It's always nice to work with motivated individuals.
Power...
Purchased the generators and found a way to get gas for the generator each week. Hopefully they'll arrive tomorrow. We're estimating 6 months before the government puts in electricity to the schools.
Internet...
Internet is up and working at Katane. I believe that group has worked on email accounts with the teachers. Needless to say, any future projects should be organized much more efficiently now that the communication process won't be limited by outside parties. Mmaweshi's internet should be installed tomorrow.
A few more things...
Starting to organize the ceremony planned for next Thursday. At that time we'll distribute the laptops in a "formal" fashion which should indicate how the students have earned their laptops, not to be confused as a gift. I believe the HR Director for the Limpopo Province will be speaking at the ceremony, too.
Finances...
Have run into a few extra unexpected expenses. Several laptops were stolen by the airport, a few broke on the way, and some here and there expenses have put us back. Unfortunately, the school supplies is the first thing to get knocked off our list since it's not on our top priority for making this project work. Just have to make do with what we have...
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