Computer Aid International, in partnership with Dell Technologies, CDW, and Small Projects Foundation, has launched a Solar Community Hub in Newlands, South Africa.

As the world advances, our mission continues to connect underserved communities such as Newlands by providing sustainable access to technology and enabling skill development to bring out their potential and provide them with access to the world.

Newlands is a rural community in need of learning resources. Not having basic resources, such as a library or research centre, has created a socio-economic gap, with many people lacking the skills to use a computer or the development skills needed to thrive in today’s digital world.

The new hub, constructed from two connected recycled shipping containers and equipped with Dell technology equipment, provides expanded space to meet the growing needs of the local community. It drives job creation and financial sustainability through services in health, education, and social care.

The community will now be able to gain essential life skills, including computer literacy, entrepreneurship, résumé building, and career guidance. Grade 6 and 7 learners are provided with computer literacy classes, ensuring they are prepared for secondary education. A team of 10 IT trainers is dedicated to the lab to make this possible.

The Small Projects Foundation is also supporting young women and girls across the province by helping them complete school, pursue further studies, and find employment opportunities.

The hub offers tailored programmes, such as an HIV Prevention Programme, Moms Mentorship, Early Childhood Development, and the Umbono Project, which identifies and addresses children’s vision problems. Managed by the community, this Solar Community Hub ensures social value and impact in both now and in the future.

This SCH is funded by Dell Technologies and CDW.

If you’re inspired by the positive impact this hub is making on the community of Newlands and would like to help extend its reach, you too can get involved by donating or raising funds to support similar initiatives. Together, we can continue to build strong, more sustainable communities worldwide.

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