Vodacom has
hosted a significant showcase for the Vodafone Group Executive Committee (EXCO)
at the Vodacom Group Headquarters, marking their first visit to the facility.
The event included a tour of Dr. WF Nkomo High School in Atteridgeville, a
Vodacom-supported School of Excellence that exemplifies the company's
commitment to education and technological advancement in South Africa.
Dr. WF Nkomo
High School has implemented a virtual classroom solution alongside a
comprehensive robotics and coding curriculum, benefiting over 1,200 learners.
During the visit, representatives from the Vodacom Foundation outlined the
substantial contributions of their multifaceted education ecosystem, which aims
to empower students through innovative learning environments.
Since its
inception in 2018, the Vodacom Foundation has significantly expanded its
support for Schools of Excellence, increasing the number from 13 to 25. This
growth reflects Vodacom's dedication to enhancing educational resources and
opportunities for learners across South Africa. The support provided includes a
fully furnished computer center to facilitate technology access, the provision
of up to two ICT coordinators to assist both learners and educators in
navigating technology, the implementation of various security measures and the
modernization of school infrastructure to create a safe and conducive learning
environment, access to a social worker to support students' well-being, and the
decommissioning of pit latrines, replacing them with suitable ablution
facilities to ensure that learners attend school with dignity and can focus on
their academic success.
The CEO of
Vodacom South Africa, Sitho Mdlalose expressed his enthusiasm during the
showcase, stating, “This is the moment Vodacom lives for. We exist to
connect for a better future. On days like these, we realize that we have a
purpose to live for that includes using our resources and technology to solve
critical societal challenges and deliver a better life for all.”
According to
him the showcase not only illustrated Vodacom's commitment to educational
initiatives but also highlighted the transformative impact of technology in
addressing social challenges.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye