SIBU – The distribution of Raspberry Pi computers to 1,265 primary schools throughout Sarawak is expected to be completed in December, said the state Assistant Education, Science and Technological Research Minister Dr Annuar Rapaee.
He said to date, more than 500 schools in Serian, Bau and Kapit had received the computers, which would introduce schoolchildren, especially in rural areas, to the digital world through home-based teaching and learning without the need to have internet access.
“The computer is not like the normal computers that we use but works on an intranet network and ensures learning can still go on even if there is no internet connectivity.
“Pupils can connect their tablets to the computer server within a 10m radius to access the preloaded learning materials or materials loaded to it by their teachers.”
He said this to reporters after handing over the Raspberry Pi computers to 22 schools in Selangau district at Dewan Penghulu Balang in Sekuau near here today.
Dr Annuar said the number of Raspberry Pi computers allocated to each school ranges from five to 25 units, depending on the number of students.
He said Sarawak Information System Sdn Bhd (SAINS), which is wholly owned by the state government, will offer technical services for the computers while his ministry will provide the preloaded learning materials.
Training will be provided as well to teachers, including on the setting up and minor maintenance of the Raspberry Pi computers, which have been used extensively in primary schools throughout Britain, the United States and countries in Africa and South America, he said.
Apart from Selangau, 35 schools in Kanowit and 93 schools in Sibu also received the computers this time around, before distribution is continued to other areas until year-end. – Bernama, August 11, 2021
