On 12 August 2013 21:57, Sean Moroney <seanm@aitecafrica.com> wrote:

Hi Mark,

 

I agree strongly with the strategy you propose: invest the funds in well planned school computer labs  resourced with low-energy, thin client solar-powered systems that all students have access to. Even though KPLC has been tasked with powering up thousands of schools, this is going to take time – and even when connected, some schools will struggle to pay to stay connected.

 

The container-based system that Stonehouse has developed, using Aluetia  computers developed in the UK specifically for African conditions, is one solution that should be seriously considered in my opinion. They are a client of ours and they recently sent me the attached document on their concept. 


So, Stonehouse knows Africa more than the Africans (just kidding) :)

This is the concept. However, considering how many Std 1 pupils are in a single classroom (stream), I still don't think using even a 40" container will suffice. Assume a stream of 40 kids attending a computer-based lesson. You cannot say each kid will only occupy 1" - if we were to go with a 40" container. We must look at the average number per class based on those schools with the highest admission figures and design a Lab that can comfortably accommodate that number of pupils. I still think there is an opportunity for an architectural firm to design the prefab lab. This container thing does not cut it for me. There used to be Kenya School Equipment Scheme during my days in Primary School. Could this be their mandate??

And while still at it, is there a budget for IT Support Techie for this project? Every school will require at least one and don't tell me it's going to be a "computer teacher". This role must be played by a specialist.


--
Best regards,
Odhiambo WASHINGTON,
Nairobi,KE
+254733744121/+254722743223
"I can't hear you -- I'm using the scrambler."