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Tweeting for good
A campaign by a bank reveals the positive power of Twitter when it is roped in for a good cause, writes ARTHUR GOLDSTUCK.
It uses a Python programming script on a master computer to scour Twitter, as well as other social media channels for the #GoodFollowsGood hashtag. While Twitter is the home of the hashtag, the computer will also search Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for the posts.
These are processed by a micro-controller unit built on the Raspberry Pi, platform, which will sends commands to the 3D printers and laser cutters in the trailer.
“The Tweet Machine activation is a live demonstration of positive words having a positive impact, while at the same time creating tangible education tools to benefit young learners,” said Mahleka.
It won’t stop there, as the tweet machine will remain in service once the campaign ends.
“Two of the three 3D printers will be donated to an all-female black cooperative made up of dependants of South African military veterans,” Mahleka promised. “Thanks to an upskilling programme conducted by our Business Development Service Provider, Human Capital Learning Solutions (HCLS), in partnership with the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) and the Standard Bank Enterprise Development team, the cooperate will use the 3D printers to establish an innovation and education centre called InfoTech Café, which will provide IT services to the Sedibeng community.
“Whether it’s in skills development, infrastructure, or education, we believe that any investment we make should have a positive impact on both current and future generations. Africa has enormous potential and we are committed to moving her forward by driving inclusive economic growth, developing and implementing better ways of doing business, and supporting economic integration and development across the continent.”
Continue reading to find out how the Tweet Machine will live on.
