Two third-year Rhodes University Computer Science and Information Systems students, Matthew Boswell and Munashe Musuka, have been selected to become Google’s 2012 ambassadors.
Google ambassadors are responsible for hosting events to publicise Google’s products and initiatives, as well as serving as a representative for their campus.
“This is an opportunity for me to do something for my university,” says Musuka. “We’ll also have the opportunity to learn and meet new people”.
Boswell, who was also a Google ambassador in 2011, is excited about some of the plans the two have in the pipeline for the university.
“Last year was a bit tough because I was on my own and to organise, plan and go through with any event was very difficult,” he says, “but now we’re two people, I think it’ll be a lot easier”.
According to the programme guidelines, potential Google ambassadors are not only thrilled by new technological developments but are also deeply rooted in engaging and helping one’s community with the tools of knowledge available to them.
“We’re at the point where we need to move out and do something for the community,” says Musuka. “One of the places where we can do something better in education is high school and primary schools”.
Some of the projects planned include hosting workshops for pupils and university students, as well as social events.
Ambassadors are required to host two events per term, for which Google provides a budget. “It feels cool,” Boswell laughs, “I’m empowered to educate people and it’s a good opportunity for me to teach people things they don’t know. New technologies are coming out, if you’re not going to keep up with technology, you’re not going to keep up with the world”.
For more information on the Google ambassador programme and more opportunities for students, visit http://www.google.com/intl/en/jobs/students/proscho/programs/emea/
Photo and story by Wilhelmina Maboja
Photo: Google Ambassadors at Rhodes University, Matthew Boswell and Munashe Musuka.