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The equipment has been distributed to secondary schools, departments of the
Dedza District Council, other public agencies in Dedza such as the, Police
and Judiciary. Katsekaminga Secondary School has obtained more PCs from another
charity and set up a complete computer classroom. In 2007 the first group of
students sat their school leaving certificate in computer studies – one of a
limited number in the whole of Malawi.
The influx of computers has also created a commercial opportunity in Dedza.
A few companies have been set up to offer computer training and support and some
shops are selling printer cartridges. Two public use internet cafes have opened
As well as opportunities, the computers do create problems in dealing with
maintenance and virus protection. We are helping with this. In 2008, Nigel Eames,
a volunteer, went to Dedza to carry out training for computer maintenance with
representatives of several public sector organisations. He keeps in contact with
them by email to provide further help and periodically sends updated anti-virus
software.
In the last three years further assistance has been provided by co-operation
with the Computer Department of Glasgow City Council. Each year, computer equipment
is shipped out and staff visit Malawi. They send a team to work in Dedza. They
have installed PCs and small networks in various locations. They have also provided
the PCs for a training room that can be used by Council staff and people from
community groups. We provided funds for the furniture, electrical work and security
measures for the room.
Any assistance from companies or individuals who would volunteer to go to Dedza
to carry out work and train local people would be much appreciated.
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