Bridging the digital divide at uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality

The Unisa KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Region recently embarked on a transformative journey in uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality, KZN. The initiative aimed to pave the way for educational opportunities in an area where obstacles to learning are prevalent. With the pending Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a Unisa Service Centre within the Manguzi Multipurpose Centre, the potential for progress in not only uMhlabuyalingana but neighbouring municipalities such as Jozini, Mtubatuba and Hlabisa-Big Five.

Steven Shabangu, Mario Sales and Freddy Mlambo (CEDU) welcome the first two 2023 matriculants from the municipality to apply to study at Unisa in 2024

The uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality's mayoral office believes education is a powerful catalyst for social change. In partnership with university colleges, the Unisa KZN Region took the initiative to collaborate with the municipality and bridge the digital divide.

Against the backdrop of the initiative was the region's concern that deserving prospective students may miss an opportunity to get access to education due to issues beyond their control. Issues such as the scarcity of data, unreliable electricity supply and poor connectivity should not be insurmountable barriers to education. As a university committed to equity and inclusivity, the Unisa KZN Region noted that the frequent loss of internet connectivity disrupted students' studies, leading to significant delays in their progress.

From left to right: Tshegofatso Moche and Dinah Blom (CAS) with Bafana Thembu (uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality)

Additionally, load shedding disrupted the internet connection and had a ripple effect on students' ability to participate in online classes, submit assignments and write online exams. Therefore, addressing the connectivity challenges in uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality was not just a priority for Unisa but a necessity for the entire community's well-being.

From left to right: Gugu Ngwane and Sli Bhengu training Thulani Gumede from the uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality Youth Office

Unisa's intervention in uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality has highlighted the urgent need to bridge the digital divide and provide equitable access to education for all. It underscores the commitment to overcoming challenges and fostering progress, not only in education but also in the daily lives of the community. Unisa is dedicated to creating a future where every deserving individual can thrive, regardless of their barriers.

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*By Jo Cossavella, Communications Officer, KwaZulu-Natal Region