Ten Pasifika early childhood centres in Manukau took part in training during November 2006 in the use of software and equipment donated by IBM to enhance the access and use of new technologies in their centres.
The generous donation from IBM of a Kidsmart desk in each centre, and accompanying professional development in their use, was facilitated by COMET as part of the SmartCentres project. The project aims to increase the connections of Manukau early childhood centres to communities and families through the use of technology.
The SmartCentres project also partners with the Auckland Kindergarten Association and the Franklin Kindergarten Association to work with 30 Manukau kindergartens and other centres to complete an audit of their existing technology equipment and professional capabilities. The audit will then inform a Centre Plan for the use of Information and Communications Technologies into the future.
