A Portland paramedic jumped at the opportunity to become computer literate after she was grounded during the national Covid-19 lockdown.
Patricia September, who is diabetic and has more than 20-years experience in saving lives, was taken off the road because of her health possibly being compromised.
She signed up for the six-week Ward 78 basic computer classes at Dagbreek Community hall, in Westridge.
“I brought my daughter Nikita along to help me because I did not know how to switch on the computer,” she said.
Ms September said being grounded had forced her to learn new skills and find another way to be useful.
Ta Aawun Toddlers principal Sakeen Moyce said computer literacy was religiously “waajib” (a must).
“It was necessary to help her better communicate with parents,” she said.
Ms Moyce, from Portland, said as an entrepreneur the class was instrumental in learning to do business better.
Eddie Andrews, councillor for Ward 78, including Westridge and parts of Portland, said 163 responded to the call for course applicants.
It was open to all in the community, including organisation administrators, grandparents and parents to gain confidence in using technology.
He said the hall was in the process of being set up as a homework hub and that adults needed to be computer literate to help their grandchildren and children.
Mr Andrews welcomed the community to use the facility, which had free wi-fi, a printer and stationery.
Ashley Potts, director of Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre, programme coordinator for DAD (Decision Affects Destinies), a youth mentor programme, said participants were not scared to say they needed help.
“There is nothing wrong in saying ‘I can’t do something’. You put yourself out there and gave yourself the ability to grow,” he said.
Facilitator Mark Martin said it was great to be part of this community initiative and able to give back to the community.