Nigeria: Computer Centre for Tai Solarin Humanist School
Nigeria: Computer Centre for Tai Solarin Humanist School
Computer Centre for Tai Solarin Humanist School
Members
Oluwarotimi Esther
Rahmat Gaffar
Maman Narayan Wushishi
Umuratu Sodiq
Balikis wasiu
Sherifat Kabir
Danladi Lubaba
Email: saheeds731@gmail.com
Phone: +2347045382667
When and why did your group become humanist and what does humanism mean to your group?
I (Saliu Olumide Saheed) became a humanist when I was 20 years old. As a former ex-Muslim and an Islamic-trained preacher, I discovered that Islam has many elements of irrational ideas and thoughts that are based on supposed revelations that promote hatred, classism, war, demonization of freethought, and free inquiry. I then renounce the religion, its God Allah,and Its teachings. As an independent researcher, I discovered humanism through books. Humanism more than any religious orientation or philosophy has made my life more accessible and beautiful, what more can a man want?
Projects Description
This project seeks to convert one of the existing classrooms at Tai-Solarin Humanist School into a fully equipped Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Center. The center will function as a modern hub for learning, innovation, and digital skill development, ensuring that students have access to current technology, interactive learning resources, and hands-on training in vital ICT skills. The facility will be furnished with 4 units of used desktop computers, star-link high-speed internet, a multimedia projector, interactive software, and furniture designed to promote comfort and collaboration. The aim is to create an environment where students can explore and learn through both guided lessons and independent discovery.
The ICT Center will bring numerous benefits to young students. It will provide them with essential digital literacy skills, enabling them to navigate the modern technological world with confidence. Through internet-enabled learning, students will gain access to global knowledge resources, expanding their learning beyond the standard curriculum. ICT-based teaching aids will make lessons more engaging and interactive, which will help to boost comprehension and academic performance. Exposure to coding, design tools, and research activities will foster creativity, problem-solving abilities, and innovation. Importantly, the center will also help bridge the digital divide by giving students from less privileged backgrounds the same opportunities to acquire modern skills as their peers in more urban and technologically advanced schools.
Beyond its educational impact, the ICT Center will contribute to the long-term sustainability of the school. After school hours, the facility can be opened to the wider community, offering services such as basic computer training, printing, photocopying, and internet access for a modest fee. These services can generate income to support the school’s maintenance and development projects. Additionally, teachers will receive ICT training to enhance lesson delivery and integrate technology into daily teaching, reducing reliance on printed materials and lowering operational costs over time. A well-equipped ICT Center will also make the school more attractive to NGOs, technology companies, and donors interested in supporting education, potentially bringing in further partnerships and resources.
The introduction of digital tools for record-keeping, communication, and e-learning will streamline school operations, making them more efficient and cost-effective. Most importantly, by equipping students with 21st-century skills, the school will be preparing them for future careers and ensuring they can contribute meaningfully to their communities. This will create a ripple effect of positive change, as well-trained graduates enter the workforce and society equipped with the knowledge and tools to succeed.
In conclusion, transforming a classroom at Tai-Solarin Humanist School into a Functional ICT Center is both an educational and a sustainability initiative. It will empower young learners with valuable skills, expand learning opportunities, and create a self-sustaining resource that benefits not just the students but the entire community. This investment in technology and education will secure a brighter future for the school and its learners, ensuring that they are not left behind in the digital age.
Budget
• All-in-One Used Desktop Computer (4 units) – $440
• Digital camera – $205
• Star-Link – $384
• Ethernet Cable – $12
• Power Strip – $8
• Desk & Chair – $125
• Installation & Setup (labor) – $100
• Software and licensing -- $50
• Hard drive -- $25
• Speakers -- $20
• UPS -- $75
• Webcams and Headset -- $102
• SMartboards -- $62
• Curtains -- $31
• Fans -- $17
Total = $1656
Expected Income
The implementation of the ICT Center at Tai-Solarin Humanist School is planned to span four months. In the first month, the project team will finalize the design, confirm the budget, and source all required ICT equipment and furniture. This stage will also include arranging for internet subscriptions and acquiring necessary software licenses. The second month will be dedicated to preparing the classroom space, which involves painting, electrical adjustments, and cable management, followed by the installation of computers, projector, networking equipment, and furniture. In the third month, the focus will shift to testing all systems for performance and stability, as well as training teachers and the ICT center manager on daily operations and basic maintenance. The fourth month will mark the official launch of the ICT Center, with lessons beginning for students and the commencement of after-school ICT programs and community services such as printing, scanning, and basic computer training.
The ICT Center is also designed to generate revenue to support the school’s sustainability. The primary income sources will include after-school ICT training for the community, projected to attract an average of 20 participants per month at $10 each, yielding about $2,400 annually. Printing and photocopying services are expected to generate $50 per month, totaling $600 annually, while internet café access after school hours is projected to bring in $100 per month, or $1,200 annually. This brings the total projected annual revenue to approximately $4,200. Operating costs, which include internet subscription ($300 per year), electricity and backup power ($200 per year), and maintenance and repairs ($300 per year), are estimated at $800 annually. Subtracting these expenses from the revenue leaves an estimated net annual profit of $3,400. This profit will not only cover the running costs of the ICT Center but also contribute to other school needs, making the project both educationally beneficial and financially sustainable.
Benefits to your Community
Access to digital skills training for youths and adults, improving employability.
Affordable ICT services such as printing, scanning, and internet browsing.
Opportunities for lifelong learning through community workshops and online resources.
Bridging the digital divide for people without personal access to computers or the internet.
Boosting local entrepreneurship by helping small business owners with online marketing, design, and research.
Creating new income streams for the school, supporting long-term sustainability.
Encouraging community engagement through events, training sessions, and ICT-related projects.