Nelson Mandela Foundation

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On 15 May 2014 Sohlazane Primary School, in Tjakastad informal settlement in Badplaas, Mpumalanga, became the 44th recipient of a Mandela Day container library.

Along with Itemeleng Primary School in the Free State and Thabantsho Primary School in Limpopo, Sohlazane Primary’s all-new container library features 15 tablet computers loaded with ebooks, Internet access and the Via Afrika-registered CAPS curriculum.

Sponsored by Via Afrika Publishers, the digital centre of learning will provide Internet access and interactive curriculum applications to the school’s 619 learners and 19 teaching staff, and to adults in the community who come to the school after hours for Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET).

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The interactive curriculum, which covers Grade 1 to 12, is incredible. Learners are not only able to read content, but they are encouraged to click on pictures and watch video to enhance their understanding of how things work. Learners are able to test themselves in various subjects, which is beneficial pre-exam preparation.

The sponsor, Via Afrika has gone beyond mere access to technology – it has provided a tangible solution within the education sector that is able to effect much-needed improvement in learner results and teaching capability.

Adults in the community looking to pass their secondary school exams also come to the school for lessons, after hours. By using the newly installed technology and curriculum aids, they have a real opportunity to not only pass their exams and graduate, but also to learn how to navigate digital platforms and ultimately increase their chances of becoming economically active citizens.

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The launch of the container library on 15 May 2014 was well supported, with some 1 000 people in attendance.

Learners entertained guests with dance performances, poetry readings and renditions of various songs.

Room to Read, a partner to Breadline Africa, attended the launch event. It commended principal Luphoko on being a true leader, who inspires her staff to be active agents of change.

In addition, representatives from district and regional library and information services committed to supporting the school by monitoring the usage of the equipment.

A cow was slaughtered to mark the occasion, and everyone had a hearty meal in celebration.