Maritzburg College School Magazine Maritzburg College Magazine 2016 electronic | Page 74

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES
TechSquad
Back row: T Marais, A Loretz, J Scheepers, J Smit, L Walters, S Ishwanthlal, Y Maharaj, G Haripersad, C McKenzie
Middle row: A Westley, L Charles, A Mulligan, Z Handley, E Lamprecht, L Little, P Phala,
Q Roberts, R Bennets, K Harischandre, C Gold, SE Mntungwa
Front row: J Myburgh, T Govindasamy, D Dhayaram, J Botha, S Naicker (captain), Mr A van Wyk,
S Xaba, S Duncan, A Little, R Murdoch-Oats, T Marais
The technology driven society still attracts many of our techno-savvy boys
as well as those who have a ‘natural’ affinity for technology. Never before
have we had such a large number of juniors keen to work with both man
and computer. To grow in this technological age is dependent on one’s
willingness to experiment, network, read, share and try out new concepts.
We are fortunate to have boys who desire to grow. Captained by the
capable and reliable S Naicker, our society has grown in operations,
training and mind sports.
The dedicated boys of TechSquad perform a variety of functions all
technology related. The functions include, peer-to-peer assistance, computer
LAN monitoring, learner-applications assistance, ICT presentations,
computer servicing, assembling, trouble shooting and repair, iPad training,
teacher-assist training, and eSports, to name a few. This vital service is
provided both in teaching venues and computer LANs. Each TechSquad
‘officer’ is expected to provide technical support to both learner and
educator when the need arises.
A vital part of our function is training. It is necessary to equip our TechSquad
‘officers’ with the up-to-date trends, skills and knowledge to remain relevant
to staff and boys. The training is often done by the boys themselves. It not
only equips and informs our boys about all things technology, but also
provides a platform for them to present ideas, concepts, lessons, solutions
and trends to the peers. This builds confidence, support as well as teaching
and learning skills.
TechSquad has recently partnered with Eastwood Primary School to equip
20 of their pupils with ICT skills and knowledge. The aim of the project is to
‘exchange’ ICT skills for life skills. These ICT skills included: introduction to
computers, hardware, software, word processing, electronic presentations,
internet safety, anti-cyber bullying, web-based email, and cloud computing.
The life skills the TechSquad would develop are: planning, facilitating,
leading, communicating and lesson presenting. During the 2016 Skills
Exchange, J Botha led from the front. He had prepared, and excellently
delivered the lessons for the skills exchange. The six-week programme was
well attended and supported by the pupils of Eastwood Primary School
(EPS). Special thanks to them, Mr K Moodley (Acting Headmaster of EPS)
and Mr I Ngcobo (ICT Educator of EPS). We look forward to growing the
Skills Exchange Programme in 2017.
We would like to express our gratitude to the boys for their dedication to the
society under the leadership of S Naicker. We are particularly appreciative
of the continued support and assistance from Mrs S Thorpe and Messrs W
David, C Luman, J Maistry, G Bennetts, R Gutteridge, S Peach and R Tooms.
Mr A van Wyk
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