Pan-African wholesale network service provider Workonline Communications and Business Services IT (BSIT), a Johannesburg-based IT solutions company with 15 years' experience and an extensive wireless network in Gauteng, joined hands to provide improved Internet access for Afrika Tikkun's Phutaditjaba centre in Alexandra, which supplies crucial life skills development and work readiness training to the greater Alexandra community, north of Johannesburg. Slow Internet previously presented a challenge to the organisation, impairing its efforts to provide quality online education and training to the community.

Afrika Tikkun is focused on developing young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, from Cradle to Career through a support model that focuses on education, holistic development, skills development and work placement. Afrika Tikkun's Computer Skills Development Programs provide children, youth and their communities with opportunities to interact with technology and learn how to use the systems and software that are necessary to lift themselves out of poverty and become productive members of the modern workforce.

Marc Lubner, CEO of Afrika Tikkun explains: "Broadband access to the internet is becoming more and more necessary for participation in the economy – it's where you find opportunities to work, to develop skills and expand yourself. Without the privileges access to worldwide connections and information provides, low income families will be left even further behind."

"Access to high-speed Internet is vital in order for these centres to truly live out their potential, in making a difference in the lives of these communities," explains Edward Lawrence, Director of Business Development at Workonline Communications. "At Workonline we believe everyone should have access to the Internet. It is an essential part of everyday life and is irreplaceable in its ability to assist people in developing skills, expanding knowledge and even finding work. Thus, it is one of the most important vehicles in allowing people to become, and remain, valuable members of society in terms of their contribution to the development of the economy."

While Workonline sponsors the bandwidth from their network, BSIT provides the last-mile connection for the Alexandra centre. Wayne Redelinghuys, Managing Director at BSIT, explains that the company is committed to extending the reach of the Internet across underserviced areas in Gauteng and they are excited to be part of the project.

"We have a strong relationship with Workonline, as our trusted wholesale bandwidth provider. We had been exploring opportunities to support a deserving community project, and when Edward told us about the Afrika Tikkun project, we immediately wanted to be involved. It is so rewarding to be part of worthy projects, such as this, that allow us to contribute positively to the country and provide our services where they are truly needed," he says.

Lawrence explains that Workonline remains committed to improving the quality of Internet in Africa, which is best carried out through strong partnerships, reliable infrastructure and dedicated staff.

"BSIT has enabled us to get closer to our goal, and contribute positively to the lives of others. More so, together, we are assisting Afrika Tikkun to continue to empower the community and grow the reach and impact of their programmes," he concludes.