M-Ubuntu, expanding practical uses of technology with coaching and training

 A new siege is under way in Mafikeng as the M-Ubuntu team met with principal and teachers in the second round of training and coaching in the use of Mobile phones for projects and examinations.Every teacher of Ramosadi Primary School is involved in the project and this week started a 14-day initiative to engage them in the use of the phones for learning. Even the extended school community, represented by the School Governing body, were involved as the team explained the nature of the project, the achievements thus far and the plans ahead.

Duke University Lecturer, Lucy Haagen, are spending her days following a tight schedule that includes class visits to see teachers in action, coaching workshops to give practical ideas for the use of the phones and liaisons withthe community and the North West University to explore sustainability options for the M-Ubuntu project.

The visit of the US Embassy's English Language Officer, Mr Eran Williams, earlier this week, allowed M-Ubuntu to expand the awareness of this initiative.

Local institutional support coordinator, Mr BA Itumeleng, who represented the North West Education Department, spoke with praise and hope earlier via Skype to the M-Ubuntu coach in Washington DC. " I see such great possibilities for M-Ubuntu  in helping our teachers in the region to learn practical uses of the technology", he said.

Lucy Haagen stays on in the region till Friday, 6th November before returning to the US.

Mr BA Itumeleng, from the North West Education Department speaks via Skype to Theo van Rensburg Lindzter in Washington DC