(Manassas, VA) - EarthWalk Communications, Inc. has joined with the Microsoft-led School Technology Innovation Centre (STIC), a hub for innovation in education technology, processes and pedagogy to showcase its innovative technology solutions across sub-Saharan Africa. Through this partnership, EarthWalk's wireless mobile technology solutions will be exhibited at STIC facilities and Departments and Ministries of Education throughout the year, demonstrating innovative approaches to increasing student and teacher access to computers and for facilitating the integration of information and communication technology (ICT) in instruction.

The technologies to be exhibited include EarthWalk’s eXpress8x8™ case line of mobile wireless laptop labs, SideKick PowerPack “ALL DAY” universal laptop battery and eCharger™ Caddy mobile recharging station. The combination of EarthWalk’s mobile wireless labs and extended life battery power solutions creates a complete, energy-efficient technology platform that can operate successfully no matter the location or condition of the learning environment. As such, its mobile wireless solutions are particularly relevant for sub-Saharan Africa’s rural, less reachable regions where the challenges of access to and application of ICT in education are widespread.

EarthWalk mobile wireless labs are well-suited to sustain the tropical climate and environmental conditions that are typical of sub-Saharan Africa, including high temperatures and sand. The eXpress8x8™case line features a uniquely portable, light weight and durable trunk design that enables it to be easily deployed to any location, especially remote locations. Complementing the durability of the mobile labs, EarthWalk’s semi-rugged eBuddy laptops meet MIL810F drop-test standards (26 drops of 36 inches onto plywood over concrete with unit off and display closed).

To ensure that technology is integrated seamlessly and without interruptions typically caused by power outages, brown-outs, black-outs and depleted batteries, EarthWalk’s fully integrated mobile wireless computer labs operate at 85% electrical efficiency from one power outlet, solar panel or portable generator. The trademarked one-plug power management system integrated into EarthWalk’s mobile wireless labs eliminates the hassles of wires and reduces the consumption of electricity, allowing students and teachers to maximize their use of technology and their potential to excel in its applications.

The SideKick PowerPack battery is EarthWalk’s latest universal power solution. This extended life battery with a useful life of five school years is designed to power a laptop without the use of electricity for a full school day, charging at night in the standalone eCharger™ Caddy when less power is being consumed by the community. The eCharger™ operates from one standard power outlet, solar panel or portable generator and maintains an internal power management and cooling system to prevent overheating. With the SideKick and eCharger™ battery power solution, students and teachers are able to continuously use their laptops throughout each day, without interruption. By eliminating disruptions to the flow of learning, students stay focused and teachers avoid losing valuable instructional time.

With one computer per child initiatives becoming a growing trend, deploying a proven low-cost solution with maximum efficiency is increasingly important. Schools facing many of the common constraints related to ICT accessibility, including reliable power, typically lack the infrastructure to implement conventional or mobile computer laboratories and the resources to upgrade their facilities. EarthWalk has leveraged its global experiences deploying mobile wireless solutions to various learning environments and ensured that its technology is especially relevant and accessible.

In partnership with STIC Africa, EarthWalk will support the development of best practices and innovation in technology integration by showcasing its wireless technology solutions; not only demonstrating the value of enabling students and teachers to use computers in their classrooms, but also the ability to implement ICT in schools and communities in any environment.

EarthWalk Communications, Inc. was established in 1996 with the vision of becoming a leading provider of technologies and tools to improve computer and Internet use in the classroom. Today, the company’s established customer base exceeds 5,000 school districts around the world. Its global presence is steadily expanding as it continues to address fundamental ICT integration problems and deliver fully-customizable, cost-effective, and energy-efficient wireless technology solutions.

For more information about EarthWalk’s partnership with STIC Africa, please contact Tiffany Thompson at TiffanyT@earthwalk.com or (703) 393-1940 ext. 237.

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