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7 May 2009

The Minister of Education, Naledi Pandor, today announced a bold and substantive "Teacher Laptop Initiative". This is part of a critical strategy to take forward the objective of improving information and communications technology (ICT) in teaching and learning. The initiative aims to ensure every teacher owns and uses a laptop, by providing them with a monthly allowance which will cover the purchase costs as well as the costs of connectivity.

The ICT package will consist of appropriate hardware and software, as well as, internet connectivity, all with prescribed minimum specifications. Teachers participating in the initiative will be required to utilise the facility in their teaching, as well as for administration.

The initiative will be phased in from 1 July 2009, starting with the most senior teachers. Provincial Education departments will implement the project and inform teachers about the venture.

A monthly allowance will be paid to qualifying teachers for a period of five years, renewable every five years, upon proof of acquiring the computer.

Enquiries:
Lunga Ngqengelele
Ministerial Spokesperson
Tel: 012 312 5538
Cell: 082 566 0446
E-mail: ngqengelele.l@doe.gov.za

Issued by: Ministry of Education
7 May 2009