Vodacom has invested more than R1.8m in two schools in Soweto, South Africa, as part of efforts to expand digital learning, improve educational facilities and widen access to quality education in underserved communities.
The investment, delivered through the Vodacom Foundation in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Education, supports the launch of the company’s Schools of Excellence model at Nkone Maroping Primary School in Braamfischerville, Soweto.
Nkone Maroping Primary School, which has approximately 1,200 learners, received more than R1m in support, while Asha Braamfischer Pre-school received more than R800,000 to strengthen early childhood education.
The initiative combines technology, infrastructure upgrades and support for teachers and learners to improve educational outcomes and extend digital access across different stages of learning.
Vodacom South Africa’s fibre team also announced plans to provide fibre connectivity to the primary school and homes in the surrounding community, enabling learners to access educational resources beyond classroom hours.
Vodacom South Africa Chief Executive Officer Sitho Mdlalose said extending connectivity into learners’ homes would help children continue learning outside school and give families greater access to online opportunities and services.
He said the company’s goal was not simply to connect school buildings but to make digital inclusion part of people’s everyday lives.
The latest investment builds on the Vodacom Foundation’s wider Schools of Excellence programme, which seeks to address educational challenges through improved infrastructure, digital tools and support services.
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In Gauteng, the programme has established six early childhood development centres and four Schools of Excellence, including Nkone Maroping Primary School. A fifth school is reportedly 95 per cent complete.
Nationwide, the initiative has grown to include more than 39 Schools of Excellence, 39 early childhood development centres and 10 Youth Academy centres, creating opportunities for more than 30,000 learners.
Launched in March 2019, the programme aims to improve access to quality education in historically disadvantaged communities and support South Africa’s long-term education development goals.
Participating schools receive ICT support from at least two coordinators, while psychosocial support professionals help address challenges affecting learners, including violence and gender-based violence.
Other improvements include upgraded computer centres, security systems and sanitation facilities. Schools are also connected to nearby early childhood development centres, teacher centres and Vodacom ICT Youth Academies to strengthen the link between early learning, teacher development and digital skills training.
Vodacom said the model is designed to create a more connected education system and equip young people with skills and resources to participate in an increasingly digital economy.
About the Author
Cecilia Attah is a tech analyst with a degree from Benue State University. She covers tech news and startups at TechRegard with a focus on how technology is transforming Africa and shaping the global landscape.
