Intel Proposes Partnership with the GSB&L to Combine Technology and Education
Representatives from the technology company Intel recently visited the Graduate School of Business and Leadership (GSB&L) to discuss a partnership agreement that will hopefully lead to the opening of an Intel Experience Centre at the University.
The Centre will create a space for educators, innovators and designers to use the latest technology to be provided by Intel as a tool for teaching and learning, stimulating research and to create entrepreneurial knowledge.
Intel South Africa’s Education Business Development Manager and UKZN alumnus, Mr Andre Christian, said that as a technology brand they had observed that graduates had limited technological skills therefore the Centre would transform both pedagogy and student learning experiences.
‘Intel takes education very seriously that is why we have people observing what takes place in the classroom and how technology could add value to education. The Centre will provide an environment for new and different ideas and since it will also have new technology, it will allow us to integrate critical thinking into teaching and learning,’ he said.
The first centre of this kind was launched at the University of Cape Town in June. GSB&L agrees to the partnership with Intel, but it would need space for the facility and Wi-Fi connectivity, while Intel will cover the cost of the technology and remuneration cost of at least two employees for the first two years’ of the Centre’s operation.
GSB&L’s Dean and Head Professor Migiro said that this is a great concept as it could complement what the School was doing, particularly in the area of entrepreneurship. The Centre will promote e-entrepreneurship to the surrounding communities, besides capacitating Lecturers and Educators on the use of technology in the lecture theatres and classrooms. Henceforth, a memorandum of understanding will be pursued.
Words: Thandiwe Jumo