WCG eCentre Programme is bringing ICT to Vanrhynsdorp
The Vanrhyndorp eCentre and the WCG eCentre Programme, formerly known as the Cape Access Programme, create opportunities for socio-economic upliftment in the Matzikama Municipality.
The Vanrhynsdorp eCentre was one of the first centres to open its doors when the then Cape Access Programme started. It provided the community with access to email, internet and various government services. The eCentre opened in 2004 with limited services on offer but as the interest in information and communication technology (ICT) grew basic computer literacy was introduced. In 2012 International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) training formed part of the many services to the community.
Currently, the eCentre has between 20 to 30 visitors daily. Visitors who were previously unfamiliar with ICT now have opportunities to get skilled in various training programmes on offer. Like many small towns in the Western Cape, opportunities for growth and socio-economic upliftment are limited. The eCentre is making an impact on the lives of the community by making computer skills development accessible to the people.
Services at the e-Centre include
- Access to computers and the internet (45 minutes a session)
- Computer assistance
- Email facilities
- Online job searches and applications
- Help setting up e-mail accounts
- Access to government information and services
Training
- e-Learner: comes with an entry-level accredited certificate.
- International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL): seven-month accredited course.
- Informal computer training.
One community member that is making a change in his life is Jerome Kotze. Jerome was injured in an accident in 2014 while training for the athletics season. His life was changed forever, and he needed a wheelchair to get around. After the accident, he was unable to complete his matric year and the eCentre made it possible for him to attend computer training.
“He tried everything he could to go on like any other student in the class. Any challenge that came his way, he overcame, and he asked for help when it came to training. He completed the International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL)", Kevin Horn (a former eCentre manager) recalls.
Visit the Vanrhynsdorp eCentre at the Thusong Service Centre at 1 Mandela Street. The team is ready to assist.
Contact the eCentre
Tel: 027 219 2031
Email: vanrhynsdorp.ecentre@gmail.com
More about Vanrhynsdorp
Vanrhynsdorp is a small town located in the Matzikama Municipality. It is part of the Cradle of Human Culture Journey that highlights the development and mysteries of human culture of the past 100 000 years.
Along the N7 about 307 km north of Cape Town, 23 km east of Vredendal and 80 km north of Clanwilliam, you will find the small town, in what is commonly known as the North West. Before 1881 Vanrhynsdorp was known as Trutro (TroeTroe). It was renamed in honour of a local Petrus Benjamin van Rhijn.
