Firm to supply South African schools with software

Microsoft renews African pledge

IT giant Microsoft has revived its commitment to giving free software to 26,000 schools across South Africa.

The move is an extension of the companys 2002 pledge to provide free software to state schools across the nation affecting 11.2 million pupils in total.

The initiative had stalled after 6,000 schools had been covered – the rest were unable to benefit for a number of reasons, including a lack of electricity or an absence of computer hardware.

The inability of many teachers to use technology spurred Microsoft to launch an education programme that has seen 17,000 teachers trained to use computers in the classroom.

“I have seen how the magic of software can help people be more productive and creative. I believe that software can also play a critical role in helping societies address their most difficult challenges”, said acting managing director of Microsoft SA, Fernando de Sousa. “Software and technology innovation can help strengthen healthcare, protect the environment, improve education and extend social and economic opportunities”.

Link: AllAfrica

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