Telkom today announced a major contribution to the Department of Basic Education (DBE) with the donation of land valued at R3.9 million across Gauteng and the Western Cape.
The pledge was formally made during a meeting held at Telkom’s offices yesterday, attended by the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, as part of her drive to mobilise private sector support for education.
The land donation will be used to strengthen school infrastructure, enabling the Department to expand access to quality learning environments for learners in need.
Speaking during the engagement, Mpho McNamee, Group Chief of Corporate Affairs at Telkom, said, “Education is the cornerstone of South Africa’s future. By donating these parcels of land to the Department of Basic Education, Telkom is investing in sustainable solutions that will contribute infrastructure of our schools and the lives of learners. We are proud to stand alongside government in building a stronger education system.”
Minister Gwarube welcomed the pledge, noting that partnerships with the private sector are key to addressing infrastructure challenges and ensuring that schools are adequately resourced.
This initiative forms part of Telkom’s broader commitment to national development and corporate social responsibility, with a focus on creating opportunities that benefit learners, educators, and communities across South Africa.
Additionally, since 2010, in partnership with the government, Telkom successfully established 900 ICT Labs nationwide. On average, each of these labs serves approximately 350 learners and 25 educators.
“We are committed to providing our youth with the essential tools and training they need to flourish. Technology is a powerful catalyst for job creation, innovation, and the improvement of daily life,” McNamee concludes.