The Vodacom Foundation has partnered with the Eastern Cape Department of Education to launch the Vodacom Schools of Excellence (SoE) model at Lavelilanga Secondary School in Komani.

The SoE model is a key pillar of Vodacom’s Educational Ecosystem, which was launched in March 2019 to unlock good quality education for previously disadvantaged communities and support government’s Vision 2030 comprehensive approach to education.

The educational ecosystem recognises that success relies on effective collaboration and execution of various components, supported by partnerships between different stakeholders.

The Vodacom SoE model currently supports 39 schools, 39 early childhood development (ECD) centres and 10 Youth Academy centres across the country.

The model encompasses at least two information and communication technology (ICT) coordinators to provide technical support for educators and learners, as well as psychosocial support professionals to address issues of violence and gender-based violence.

Infrastructure enhancements under the model include upgraded computer centres, improved security systems and sanitation infrastructure upgrades.

Each SoE is located near an ECD centre, a teacher centre and a Vodacom ICT Youth Academy, ensuring the success of this comprehensive model of education.

The Eastern Cape currently hosts six SoEs, including Lavelilanga Secondary School, in Komani, supported by Vodacom’s comprehensive ecosystem model with an investment of more than R5-million to date.

The Vodacom Foundation will invest R1.5-million in the first year at Lavelilanga Secondary School to upgrade its facilities and digital infrastructure and provide ICT and psychosocial support staff.

Vodacom’s purpose to connect for a better future extends far beyond telecommunications, says Vodacom South Africa managing executive for the Eastern Cape region Zakhele Jiyane.

“Through our work with the Vodacom Foundation, we are dedicated to advancing quality education and creating meaningful opportunities for learners and educators. Bringing this to Lavelilanga exemplifies our commitment to leveraging innovative, technology-enabled solutions that transform lives.”

Vodacom believes that access to quality education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering young learners to reach their full potential.

“Initiatives like this one form part of our broader mission to strengthen the education system by improving digital access, enhancing teaching and learning experiences and supporting communities with sustainable resources that enable long-term impact.”

Eastern Cape Education MEC Fundile Gade emphasised the critical importance of such public-private partnerships.

“Public-private partnerships like the launch of this Vodacom Educational Ecosystem are essential in helping us overcome the challenges in providing the quality education that South Africa’s Constitution promises and envisages.”

Gabe notes that digital and Internet access is not a luxury, but rather a critical lifeline essential for growth, education and unlocking potential.

“Vodacom’s investment in our schools demonstrates what is possible when public and private sectors work together with a shared vision.”

“The infrastructure, connectivity and support systems being put in place will fundamentally enhance our teaching and learning environment and position our students for success in an increasingly digital world,” says Lavelilanga Senior Secondary School principal Sisanda Hexana.

“We are incredibly grateful to Vodacom for this exceptional partnership and the incredible doors this Educational Ecosystem will open for our learners, students, and the wider Zingquthu community.”