When Global Outreach (GO) opened its server-based Windows to Knowledge (W2K) library, the idea flew in the face of current internet-based e-learning strategies. But the reality of 21st Century internet in Tanzania is: costly, slow, and unreliable. The W2K model, downloading educational materials and programs from the internet to load onto a large server, available to students through a menu-driven platform tailored to Tanzanian coursework, has turned out to be inspired. With W2K, students get access to such tools as the Khan Academy, Wikipedia, TED talks, and the outstanding Tanzanian syllabus-based Shule Direct learning package.
On a 2017 visit to the library, the Iringa District Commissioner (think state Governor) implored GO to find a way to install the technology in remote schools that did not have easy access to the local library. This led to a two-year software development effort to produce a remote system. Two schools installed a pilot last year to test the program, and their enthusiasm was overwhelming. Teachers found a way for students to develop a much better understanding of subject matter, heads of school observed basic changes in student attitude toward learning, and student scores in 2018 National Examination showed dramatic improvements.
But it was a providential visit to the Bradenton Florida Rotary club, who had sponsored W2K in the first place, by a couple whose NGO, SHARE Africa, sponsors a girls’ secondary school on the Lake Victoria shore, that paved the way. They saw the value of the system during a meeting with Stan Muessle and Executive Director Maryline Mamuya during her US trip in May and contracted us to supply computers, leading to the first commercial sale of the W2K software. That system was installed this month to the delight of school students and officials.
Headmistress Sr Vestina says it best: “Hekima students … are extremely happy and can’t thank you enough…God works miraculously! How GO came to meet SHARE is a miracle indeed. Ours is an appreciation to all those involved in this project; May good Lord reward your kindness and generosity. You have added another learning motivation in our school, and we hope our students’ academic performance will improve. THANKS GO, THANKS SHARE. James and Greyson have done a wonderful job in the training of staff members and some students. You’re in our prayers.” She laughs that the only downside is she can’t get the students to leave the library. What a great problem!
Hopefully this is the beginning of strong program growth. Already two Florida Rotary clubs are proposing international grants to add 15 new schools in the next several months. And the software revenue from W2K installations is a significant step toward GO achieving a level of self-support that will keep it alive and successful in the years to come.
HONGERA (Congratulations) to the entire Iringa team for this outstanding accomplishment.
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.
