Kiosks are breaking through the digital divide in Africa: first among equals

Abstract

The Digital Doorway is a joint project between the South African Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Meraka Institute, aimed at the promotion of computer literacy and associated skills in Africa. The assumption is that people have the inherent cognitive ability to learn computer skills with minimal external intervention. However, computers must be easily accessible to potential learners in an environment conducive to experimentation. Apart from the ability to read text, literacy involves image and screen literacy and, particularly, information navigation.