Symantec Donates Software to Schools

Software with a retail value of R100m is to be distributed free to South African schools by Symantec in a bid to boost the use of computers in every school.

The donation was announced yesterday by Education Minister Kader Asmal, who welcomed it as an example of the public and private sector co-operation that was necessary for SA to enhance its educational standards.

Nasdaq-listed Symantec will supply its internet security and antivirus software to the education department immediately, so delivery can begin to the small percentage of schools that already have computer facilities.

The value of the offer could grow substantially in the next few years once servicing and supporting the software is factored in.

"As a company operating in SA Symantec wants to play its part in preparing the country and its youth for the digital future," said its Africa regional manager Patrick Evans.

The move will also earn Symantec respect in the black empowerment stakes, at a time when technology firms are under fire for doing little to encourage black economic growth.

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