Thursday, December 8, 2011

Cargill Helps Computer Aid International Bridge Digital Divide in Zambia



Cargill's cotton business in collaboration with the King Edward VII Lancashire Cotton Growing Endowment fund have donated over GBP26,000 to provide computer and internet access for the Kampamule Basic School in the Katete district of Zambia.
These 11 computers are part of the Zubabox - an innovative solar-powered container which powers the computers and provides access to the internet via satellite link. It was developed by Computer Aid International as a cost effective solution that would provide access to computers and the internet for rural communities in the developing world.
The ZubaBox requires no wired internet or electricity supply and is designed to be shipped as one complete unit wherever it is installed.
Speaking on behalf of Cargill, Andrew Thomas, Director Cargill Cotton Ltd UK said: "We are really excited to be able to provide the Kampumule Basic School with what is in effect an all-in-one computer library. Research shows that access to computers and the internet can improve education and learning by 40-60%. This is particularly crucial in rural communities where education opportunities may be limited."
This investment means that students will have access to computer equipment and internet access, greatly enhancing the scope and complexity of their learning. The Zubabox will also provide the broader community with a resource outside school hours.
Thomas continued: "We have been working with a large number of cotton farmers in Katete district for many years and a lot of their children attend this school. We are pleased to be continuing our investment in their community and enabling not just the children but the broader community to reap the rewards of this innovative solution!"
A local primary school in Lancashire will also link up with the Kampamule Basic School.
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