The Vodacom Foundation, in partnership with the Gauteng Department of Education, has invested R2million in the School of Excellence model at Usizolwethu Special Needs School in Daveyton, empowering learners with intellectual disabilities through technology and digital skills.
This landmark initiative strengthens Vodacom’s commitment to inclusive, quality education and demonstrates the transformative power of public-private partnerships in addressing systemic challenges in South Africa’s education.
The School of Excellence is a core pillar of Vodacom’s comprehensive, multi-layered education ecosystem, launched in 2019 in support of the government’s Education Vision 2030. This integrated strategy aligns with the government’s ambition to promote academic excellence and ensure equitable, inclusive access to quality education for learners from disadvantaged communities.
The SOE model currently supports approximately 40,000 learners across 39 schools nationwide, with each school strategically located alongside an Early Childhood Development Centre, a Teacher Centre, and a Vodacom ICT Academy – creating an integrated support network that benefits learners, educators, and surrounding communities. By bringing this model to Usizolwethu, Vodacom reinforces its commitment to the government’s 2030 education strategy and extends inclusive digital opportunities to learners with special needs.
The R2million investment will enable the school to provide learners with advanced ICT equipment, including a fully installed local area network (LAN) with special needs equipment, renovated learning labs, and a secure storage facility. The school will also benefit from reliable connectivity, a solar power solution to ensure uninterrupted learning, and a vegetable garden to promote nutrition and sustainability.
Taki Netshitenzhe, Director of External Affairs for Vodacom South Africa, commented: “We are very pleased to be launching another School of Excellence.
“This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration in creating a better, more inclusive, and sustainable future. Public-private partnerships like this are effective in addressing societal challenges at scale and building pathways for young people to participate meaningfully in the digital economy.”
To date, Vodacom has invested more than R40 million in 39 Schools of Excellence throughout the country. This funding has facilitated the installation of fully equipped, connected centres, major infrastructure upgrades, and enhanced safety and sanitation at beneficiary schools. Improvements include replacing broken windows and doors, repairing collapsing structures, eliminating pit latrines, and installing adequate water and sanitation facilities.
Nombulelo Skosana, Principal of Usizolwethu Special Needs School, commented, “We are profoundly grateful to Vodacom for the partnership and the immense opportunities this Educational ecosystem will unlock for our learners, educators, and the wider Daveyton community. “
“The infrastructure, connectivity, and support systems implemented by Vodacom with the support of the Gauteng Education Department will greatly enrich our teaching and learning environment, preparing our students to thrive in an increasingly digital world.”
Beyond infrastructure, Vodacom also provides ongoing ICT support, including digital skills training for educators and learners. Psychosocial support services are integrated into the programme to address social and emotional barriers to learning, ensuring that development is holistic and transformative for every learner.
Quality and inclusive education are vital for securing South Africa’s future, especially as the country faces the demands of a rapidly changing digital economy. Through initiatives like this, Vodacom continues to co-create lasting solutions across sectors, empowering South Africa’s young people to build meaningful futures.
