Description of project:

Sunstep runs a programme to introduce electronics to learners and teacher through technical orientation workshops and school trips - thereby promoting SET and careers in engineering. The programme provides electronic and electricity kits to learners with a strong focus on disadvantaged learners. The project is recognised by the Department of Education and registered with the Foundation for Education, Science and Technology.

The Shuttleworth Foundation?s involvement:

The Shuttleworth Foundation is funding the provision of the kits to the disadvantaged regions of Kwazulu-Natal, Gauteng, Free State, North West, Eastern Cape and Northern Cape.

Aims and objectives:

The aims of the projects are: to enable learners to empower themselves, to extend the reach of technology in South Africa, to enable learners to experience achievement, to integrate task-based activities with learning and thinking skills and to create an interest in and enjoyment of electronics.

Updated Status (May 2003):

Equipment has been purchased and workshops are currently being run throughout the country. A full report is due at the end of September 2003.

Current Status (December 2003):

Learners were provided with basic “burglar alarm” kits which they were able to develop into various technological devices after receiving adequate training. It is evident from the feedback received that this project has experienced a lot of interest and gratitude from the educators and learners who were fortunate to be part of the initiative.