Partnership to promote Education 5.0 through computer network training

THE Internet Society (ISOC), a global charity organisation based in the United States, has partnered with Blended Education College of Southern Africa (BECSA) in Bulawayo to advance the implementation of Education 5.0 through the Designing and Deploying Computer Networks (DDCN) programme.

Starting today up to next week, 60 students and tutors at BECSA will undergo a comprehensive free training programme conducted by ISOC. The DDCN training is designed for individuals with a foundational understanding of computer hardware and software, particularly those already familiar with computer systems.

The course covers key concepts in networking, including ethernet and Wi-Fi technologies, and delves into planning, designing, and implementing simple local area networks (LANs). It also tackles common maintenance challenges and their solutions.

The DDCN course offers educators vital skills, such as configuring new computer systems, and preparing them for real-world applications in various settings.

Last year, the ISOC’s Zimbabwe Chapter launched a campaign to empower ICT teachers and lecturers, culminating in the graduation of 43 individuals from the DDCN course at Solusi University.

In May, an additional 25 students graduated in Bulawayo after completing similar training.

Mrs Charity Ncube, the head of policy and governance at the ISOC Zimbabwe Chapter, said such programmes are designed to ensure continuity in learning DDCN.

“These programmes are aligned with the Government’s commitment to inclusivity, aiming to bridge the digital divide. The goal is to equip educators with the knowledge and skills to design, deploy, and maintain sustainable community networks,” she said.

“Ultimately, the programme aims to ensure that everyone has access to the internet, leaving no one behind.”

Mrs Ncube said the transformative power of the internet and its potential for the future drives their organisation to promote such programmes.

“You will agree that the internet is a force for good in our communities, offering endless possibilities and opportunities that can transform our lives for the better. It is a space where we collaborate, innovate, share ideas, play and strengthen bonds,” she said.

Mrs Ncube said the ISOC Zimbabwe Chapter is actively expanding this programme by partnering with various tertiary institutions.

“The Internet Society Zimbabwe Chapter has partnered with several universities, colleges and organisations. Today, we are pleased to partner with BESCA, an affiliate of the University of Zimbabwe, to train a passionate group of youths to design and deploy community networks, bridging the connectivity gap in under-served and marginalised communities across our country.

THE University of Zimbabwe (UZ) is today hosting the start of the National Cookout Competition in Harare. — **University of Zimbabwe**

“The 60 youths undergoing training here at BECSA this week are expected to actively connect people who are not yet online, making a difference in the lives of those in their surrounding communities.

“They will empower the communities they represent and advocate for an open, globally-connected, secure and trustworthy internet. They should aim to bring the internet to everyone and leave no one behind,” she said.

Mr Ntokozo Ncube, the programme facilitator and a tutor for ISOC’s e-learning course, said the initiative aims to inspire future internet users.

“The programme is designed to inspire and empower both present and future generations of internet users to take action in creating community networks and fostering the internet we envision, as we work towards a digital Zimbabwe by 2030,” he said.

BECSA principal, Dr Vincent Mnkandla, applauded the partnership, noting its significance for the college’s educators.

“Such programmes are particularly beneficial to our educators as they will be equipped with skills to provide the necessary education that aligns with our national policy of fostering Education 5.0,” he said.

“We also employ a blended approach to education, teaching both physically and online. These short courses that enhance our learners’ understanding of the internet and computers are always welcome, as they provide both basic and deeper knowledge of computers.”