Vanuatu Solar Powered Computers Project Update

 
Where are we up to on the solar powered computer project?
 
The initial installation of 10 units in Fomu (70 Km East of Goroka in the Highlands of PNG) in September 2012 has performed well.  The second big installation of 10 more units was carried out in Sola (the Northern area of Vanuatu in the Banks Group of Islands) in July 2013.  We are off to Hog Harbour during April to install a further 10 units.
 
This trip will be with 12 members. Three teachers from TAFE Castle Hill, two students from TAFE Castle Hill and a solar power expert from Tristec – a great Company based in Riverstone.  This  Company has developed and provided to us, at no charge, a total solar system which will make installation more simple.
 
We have received funding from District ($3,000 with 75% paid now and 25% to be provided on a successful report), from the Pink Umbrella Foundation in a competitive competition and a further $4,000.00 to cover one of the students and some of the computers.  We have meetings with the Department of Education who are agreeing to install Internet which will be a first for Vanuatu School.  We are also working on video conferencing to Department of Education in Sydney Olympic Park.  The next installation will probably be on Tanna Island with a Canberra based Rotary Club.
 
Other changes made are trialling of a cheaper computer from China and different terminals which use less power.  TAFE in the Blue Mountains are now involved in the project and have shipped two units into Africa and are working on a less expensive model.   Cost is around $500.00.  A unit was also purchased for a slum school in Philippines.
 
We are still after more funds – so if you know of anybody who needs a tax deduction by giving funds to the project, please have them get in touch.  This is a great Rotary project. It involves Rotary, TAFE students and teachers and the community.  To see the reaction of the teachers and students when we install the equipment, and the reaction on the students we take is amazing.  It really shows that “Engaging Rotary can change lives”.
 
Phill Isaacs