A catalyst

Justin Stanford, CEO of ESET Southern Africa, an anti-virus software company, said any small township business could instantly have a web presence by using a service such as Yola.com to create a free website.

"It is well proven that access to computers and the internet is an enormous catalyst for economic development and low-cost entrepreneurship," Stanford said.

He added that it is crucial to ensure that the public terminals in all techno hubs are secure and ensure the privacy of users. To avoid various types of malware (malicious software) finding its way onto public machines, it would be vital to have effective safeguards on public terminals.

Mangali explained that since most townships don't have internet cafes, the Johannesburg municipality will also encourage young people to establish ICT businesses.

To ensure that communities can make use of all the services provided by the techno hubs, trainers will be employed at every centre on a fulltime basis. James encouraged companies to participate in the initiative.

"Part of what we will be doing at the hub involves computer literacy training and in this process, employment is also being created by having full time technical assistance on site," he said.

According to Chetty, telecommunication giant Ericsson has already agreed to employ members of the community to work in the hubs.

The hubs will initially allow people to make use of basic internet functions such as email, but gradually increase their exposure and use.

"South Africa needs more internet users and this is a great tool for people to learn how to access it," Gilmour said.

He added that businesses and the economy could benefit from an increased user base. "The internet economy in South Africa is still very small because there aren't enough users," he said.

Initially, the hubs will operate in office hours, but trading hours will be extended based on demand. James said although the City of Johannesburg and other financial partners of the project will absorb the majority of costs, a small fee will be charged for the use of the services.

The project is largely funded by the Johannesburg, but businesses are encouraged to come on board. To ensure the techno hubs are sustainable, companies, banks and retailers are encouraged to "adopt a hub", donate computers and provide training for on-site staff.

It is a win-win situation for businesses and the communities: "By setting up services in an area, businesses can get now clients and communities can get access to services they often only see on TV," James said.

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