Africa-Press – Mauritius. The launch of Internet connectivity dubbed SmartBots is an indication that government remains committed to transitioning into a knowledge-based economy.
Minister of Communications, Knowledge and Technology Mr Thulagano Segokgo said this in an interview following the successful launch of SmartBots internet connectivity in Molepolole on Wednesday.
He said government had achieved the target of providing Batswana across the country with free Internet access, adding that it would enable the citizens to connect with the international community.
The minister said the intention was to assist Batswana to improve their lives, adding that no one would be left behind. He further said government services would be available online to enable citizens to access them without leaving the comfort of their homes.
The minister further said more villages would be connected through Phase 2 and 3, which would run simultaneously, adding that the major concern was the availability of electricity.
Representing Molepolole Business Council, Ms Priscilla Sibisibi embraced the new technology, saying it offered them an opportunity to access bigger markets for their products at little or no costs.
One young man was thankful that they do not had to go to internet cafes to access the internet. He said some of his peers had even started online courses.
Another youth, Ms Gina Daniel said SmartBots had come in handy as most companies required online job applications, adding that since they did not access to mainstream media and attend kgotla meetings, they were able to keep up to date with the latest information through social media.
She advised her peers to use the technology wisely and improve their lives. Meanwhile, BOPA reporter Keagetswe Motsumi reports that residents in Molepolole North also welcomed the new technology.
Speaking at Molepolole Bus Rank on behalf of the business community, Mr Kenalekgotla Sebolao said internet connectivity remained integral in business administration. He said a business was no longer dependent on its local customer base, but now it had a worldwide audience for its goods and services.
“A business’ ability to communicate with its employees, customers and associates improves when the internet yields new communication tools as it saves money and time,” said Mr Sebolao.
He said the numerous challenges that were experienced yesteryears had been minimised through internet connectivity. Cllr Mokwaledi Mokwenaotsile of Ntloelengwae ward advised the youth to use the Internet connectivity to improve their lives and avoid cyber bullying, which is punishable by law.
He encouraged them to use Internet. In Letlhakeng, Mothusi Galekhutle reports that residents believed the launch of SmartBots heralds a brighter future as it was expected to catalyse the national transformation agenda.
In an interview after the launch, Mr Keteilwe Tlhotsa of Molehela said the SmartBots project would improve civic engagement and public awareness on issues affecting society. For instance, the 51-year-old community member will reduce trips to access services at offices.
He expressed gratitude that people with disabilities were not left behind, hence he said there was commitment to donate some digital gadgets, as was announced during the launch, saying such was the spirit of inclusiveness.
He, however, was worried that there could be job losses in the process of digitalisation, citing instances where one teacher could teach 5 classes at-a-go through connectivity.
Another resident, Ms Gofaone Motswere, 30, of Goomodimo ward still in Letlhakeng sees the initiative as hope in the horizon saying it would make life easy and convenient.
Everyone will be at par with the changing world, as the internet will be available for everybody, thanks to the SmartBots initiative, youthful Ms Motswere said.
In his vote of thanks after the launch, Letlhakane acting council secretary Mr Joseph Segopa reiterated that digital society was imminent. However, he appealed to the public to be vigilant and avoid falling prey to identity theft and fraud.
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