Mayor to open Castlecliff’s Community Technology Centre - 24/07/2012

The Centre, which is a pilot project, will deliver a new and local way for the Castlecliff community to get connected and take advantage of technology on their doorstep.

The Yes to Youth Trust (Y2Y), in partnership with the Wanganui District Council’s Digital Communities Group, has developed the Community Technology Centre at the Ake Ake Centre in Rangiora Street, Castlecliff.

The CTC is a community facility that provides free and open access to computers, the internet, online resources and digital technologies. The pilot project is a further community facility for Wanganui; other facilities include the Awa City Computer Clubhouse, Computers in Homes and the Aotearoa People’s Network in Wanganui libraries, which are all funded through the Department of Internal Affairs and the government’s Digital Strategy.

“Many people cannot afford the costs of landlines, internet provider charges, software and equipment, yet a growing number of social, educational, government and utility services are dependent on internet access,” says Cr Jack Bullock, the Council-appointed member on the Digital Communities Group.

“Access to the internet and other digital technologies supports community, educational, social and economic development and ensures that everyone can access the full range of web-based and digital services. This Centre offers a huge opportunity for Castlecliff residents to access and develop their digital literacy skills.”

The Centre is open for groups and individuals between 10.00am and 3.00pm, Monday to Friday. Y2Y staff and mentors will be available to assist users who require help. A special youth only programme will run weekdays from 3.00pm to 5.00pm. The youth programme is specifically for young people to learn how to use the latest in technology by designing and creating their own projects.

This centre is a pilot project which it is hoped will act as a model for additional CTCs being opened around the district.