How can a bicycle improve a child’s education?
For the first time in the company’s history, Dimension Data employees decided to support a single charity. They were proud to give their time and skills to make a difference to children in South Africa by partnering with Qhubeka.
Cycling to education
Qhubeka was founded in 2005. The charity’s name means ‘to progress’ or ‘to move forward’. It provides bicycles to help people from remote communities gain access to schools, clinics, and jobs. Communities with limited access to transport have limited options, but bicycles can make a huge impact to people’s lives – allowing them to travel faster and further, and to carry more. They can then fetch vital supplies, travel to school or work, visit a clinic, or provide emergency help after a disaster.
All join in
In July 2016, Dimension Data employees from across the globe took part in the Qhubeka 5000 event. They planned an international, 48-hour fundraising event with a wide variety of activities that included: a raffle at the Tour de France launch, sponsored cycling events, spin and stationary cycle challenges, a charity poker night, a sponsored 100km trail run, cake sales, a sponsored walk, and a quiz night.
The money raised by Dimension Data employees allowed an incredible 924 bikes to be purchased by Qhubeka for children in South Africa. These bicycles will give rural children improved access to to school, which is a proven and effective way to improve their academic performance.
This story shows how Dimension Data supports Goal 4: Quality Education, specifically Target 4.1: “By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes.”
About Dimension Data
Dimension Data specialises in information technology services, and is based in Johannesburg, South Africa. The company focuses on services that include network integration, security, and data centres, amongst others. It is the official technology partner of the Tour de France.
Learn more about Dimension Data.
