Learners attending an Inchanga school are today gearing themselves to thrive in the digital age, thanks to the donation of a brand new and fully-equipped computer laboratory by the South African Muslim Charitable Trust (SAMCT).
The Inchanga Muslim School, which opened in 2009, has long recognised the vital role computer laboratories play in schools, but has lacked the financial muscle to invest in technology education, until the SAMCT offered assistance, providing a dedicated space for learners to develop digital literacy skills, learn new technologies, and engage with learning materials in a focused environment.
The SAMCT also donated a much-needed vehicle to the school, replacing its only means of transport, which was written off in an accident. The vehicle is crucial for transporting staff to and from Durban and Pinetown, whilst also undertaking daily food distribution activities at its eight centres.
The SAMCT’s computer laboratory and vehicle donation were collectively valued at some R700 000.
Commenting on its financial assistance, SAMCT representative, Mr Gaff Osman, said: “In today’s digital age, computer literacy amongst learners is an absolute imperative. Having a computer laboratory gives effect to preparing learners for a successful future by affording them the critical skills and knowledge necessary to excel in an increasingly technology-driven world.”
He added: “Safe, efficient and reliable transport today also forms an integral facet of any educational institution and, with regard to Inchanga School, is essential for transporting school staff, delivering food hampers, facilitating functions which had been severely stunted since the school’s only vehicle was involved in a serious accident.”
“Learning of the school’s vital vehicle replacement need and desire to enhance its educational resources for the benefit of learners, the SAMCT was pleased to provide the necessary financial assistance to ensure the realisation of both these requirements,” Mr Osman said.
The SAMCT was created in 2008, the result of a partnership between Old Mutual Unit Trusts and Al Baraka Bank, for the creation, marketing and distribution of a suite of Shariah Funds. The organisation provides funding, services and other resources to improve the lives of the vulnerable, deprived and disadvantaged. It has successfully delivered sizeable assistance solutions throughout South Africa – irrespective of race or religion – and continues to work to support needy organisations in the fields of healthcare, social development, poverty alleviation and education.
The organisation has long served as a pivotal conduit for the channelling of funding, vital services, and resources to approved public benefit organisations, and remains committed to catalysing positive change and creating a lasting impact on the development and upliftment of, especially, disadvantaged individuals and communities. Its funds are distributed to help improve the health and development of deserving people and organisations, irrespective of race or religion.
The organisation is acclaimed for its transformative role, directing substantial donations towards multi-faceted initiatives, spanning education, poverty alleviation, empowerment, community upliftment, and sustainability programmes in its quest to foster social equity and ensure the well-being of the needy
Mr Osman said: “In today’s fast-paced world, technology has emerged as a fundamental part of all our lives. Technology education is, therefore, essential for young learners and computer laboratories play a crucial role in the education system, providing access to computers and hands-on learning opportunities, preparing our young people for the future. The SAMCT is pleased to have partnered with Inchanga Muslim School, helping to ensure that its learners are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital age, whilst simultaneously ensuring the safe and reliable transport of its dedicated teaching staff to and from school.”
Ends
For more information about the SAMCT or it’s Inchanga Muslim School computer laboratory and vehicle donation, please contact:
Rasheeda Motala
Social Responsibility Executive
Tel: 084 506 2280
Email: samct@samct.co.za
www.samct.co.za