The Cape Access Centre in Kayamandi is bringing opportunities for growth

Kayamandi is a developing township in Stellenbosch. Since the 1950’s it has been home to the influx of labourers  mostly from the Eastern Cape, looking for work on farms in Stellenbosch and the surrounding areas.

The fastgrowing township of Kayamandi has always been characterised by the immense poverty of the people living there. Although there is little opportunity for socio-economic upliftment, the area has seen a lot of improvements over the last few years. Recognising a need by the community for access to online services the Kayamandi e-Centre first opened its doors on 2 December 2015. The e-Centre has seen a steady increase in user numbers from 385 in 2015 to roughly 3 000 in 2019, with recorded monthly sessions of up to 2 094.

The e-Centre operates from the Kayamandi Library and gives children, youth and adult alike easy access to information and communication technology (ICT).  ICT is a term used to describe a range of technologies that include computers, cell phones and the internet, as well as the various services and applications associated with them. The access to ICT brings opportunities and possibilities for personal growth to rural communities.

Users have access to a range of services and training.

Services

• Internet access (45 minutes a session).
• E-mail facilities.
• Help setting up e-mail accounts.
• Online job searches and applications.
• Computer assistance.
• Free printing (maximum 10 pages a day).

Training

• e-Learner: comes with an entry-level accredited certificate.
• International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL): seven-month accredited course.
• Informal computer training.

The Kayamandi e-Centre manager, Nontsikelelo Songelwa says: “The e-Centre has made a difference in the lives of the people of the community as many have gained computer skills that helped them find better jobs”. She added, “Students also have access to everything they might need for school”.

Songelwa is happy to say that the Kayamandi e-Centre, has made a difference in the life of many people. As for one user, Ntombozuko Hlaleleni, access to ICT at the centre helped her to find employment. With the help of the staff, Hlaleleni compiled her CV, searched and applied for jobs online. Hlaleleni is now working in her community at the Kayamandi Clinic.

The Cape Access Programme and the Kayamandi e-Centre provide the local rural communities with easy access to computers and a wide range of online services. These services open up opportunities for people that normally would not have the advantage to use computers to access much needed services.  

Visit the Kayamandi e-Centre housed in the Kaymandi Library in Hani Road, where trained staff dedicated to the upliftment and growth of the community will assist you.

Contact the e-Centre:
Tel: 021 889 5644
E-mail: kayamandi.ecentre@gmail.com