N$38.42 to connect one learner to the internet
Project supported by several businesses
The Eduvision project has already connected 21 schools to the internet.
The Eduvision project currently connects 12 400 learners to the internet at a cost of N$38.42 per learner per month.However, Paratus Group CEO Barney Harmse says these costs could be cut by two-thirds if satellite-based internet were used. The monthly fees are in addition to installation costs of around N$120 000, as well as infrastructure that Eduvision does not provide.
“The basic structure has to be in place – four walls and electricity. Usually, the ministry builds the structure, while computers must be supplied by a third party,” Harmse explained. “Distances to remote schools remain a challenge. Our team travels about 9 000 km across the country every month to carry out maintenance and keep schools connected.”
While current VSAT technology is expensive, Harmse noted that internet services provided by low-orbit satellites (LEOs) are cheaper and could lower costs significantly.
At present, no LEO provider is authorised to operate in Namibia. However, four local companies have submitted applications to compete for spectrum in order to deliver OneWeb’s LEO services in the country. Paratus, meanwhile, is already an authorised reseller of Starlink in Africa.
On the choice of LEO provider for Eduvision, Harmse said: “The way I see it, OneWeb is geared more towards consumers and businesses, while Starlink is more feasible for those working with smaller budgets. The real difference lies in affordability.”
So far, Eduvision has connected 21 schools to the internet, with plans to increase that number to 50 schools.
As part of the package, Eduvision installs a smartboard (electronic whiteboard), camera, and microphone. With this setup, teachers can conduct lessons for multiple classes at once, while all sessions are recorded for learners to review later.
“For example, a teacher in Ongwediva can teach three classes simultaneously in Schlip, Tses, and elsewhere. The teacher can even ask a learner to write on the board in front of them, and that writing appears instantly on the teacher’s own board,” Harmse explained.
The project is backed by several businesses, including Hollard, Gondwana, the Capricorn Group, and Cirrus Capital. – [email protected]