Johannesburg City Libraries’ Library and Information Services eLearning Unit ran an essay writing competition in collaboration with the FunDza Literacy Trust from 1 April to 31 May 2018. The intention of the competition was to promote eLearning services to the communities of Johannesburg. This saw over 100 people submitting insightful essays about how eLearning services through the libraries have impacted positively on their lives.
The essays explored the impacts of access to eLearning services, such as free WiFi, eClassrooms, eResources and Internet-enabled computers on the users. Many spoke about how these services enabled them to study more effectively, find information they needed, write CVs and apply for work. The competition higlighted how access to the Internet can be a game-changer for many young people.
Of the 100 entries received, 20 finalists were selected. At the prize-giving ceremony, these were introduced to the fundza.mobi site – FunDza’s online portal that collects edits and publishes an array of stories written for and frequently by young people. It also provides online resources that help improve writing and comprehension skills.
The winner of the eLearning Essay Writing competition – Hlophe Hloziwe walked away with this year’s CoJTLIS learning trophy, a Lenovo Tablet all sponsored by Think Ahead; a R500 CNA voucher, a FunDza Literacy Trust published book and T-Shirt all sponsored by the FunDza Literacy Trust.
The runner-up Fezile Ndlovu received a Lenovo tablet proudly sponsored by Think Ahead; a CNA voucher valued at R500; a FunDza published book; FunDza.mobi T-shirt; backpack with a journal and pen from GPLAS. While the second runner-up Amanda Mdledle received a CNA voucher valued at R500; a T-shirt and published book proudly sponsored by FunDza Literacy Trust; a backpack with a journal and pen sponsored by GPLAS as well as a branded portable phone charger from COJ.
FunDza published the three winning essays and one highly commended essay on the fundza.mobi site. Read them on the links below:
Hloliwe Perry Hlophe, eLearning can change your life:
Read essay: Here
Fezile Ndlovu, eLearning is a game-changer:
Read essay: Here
Amanda Mdledle, More than just a place to study:
Read essay: Here
Akintola Avooluwa, My Library, My pride!
Read essay: Here