MEC, Dr. Maboya
Schools in disadvantaged communities’ areas are as equally important as those in the cities and should have equal access to digital devices to improve learning and teaching through the provision of gadgets and be active participants of the fourth industrialisation wave.
It is against this background that the MTN SA Foundation handed over 50 tablets to Hoopstad Secondary School in Lejweleputswa District.
As part of bridging the digital divide between rural and urban schools, the Free State Member of the Executive (MEC) for Education, Honourable Dr Mamikie Maboya’s choice to identify Hoopstad School to be the beneficiary is a well thought decision and very unapologetic about it.
MEC, Dr. Maboya says the donation symbolizes hope and is part of giving the necessary tools to disadvantaged schools to also perform well in their studies and excel.
“The donation is a transformative move” says MEC, Dr Maboya to the parents, teacher and learners. She admonishes them to protect the gadgets and use them wisely. She says learners will have the opportunity to further learn beyond the confinement of the classroom.
The MTN SA Foundation Representative, Lesemola Selepe says it is the Foundation’s responsibility to assist the community by setting aside 1 % profit which equals to 49 million to bridge the digital divide in schools across South Africa and this they will do until March as part of their back-to-school campaign in partnership with the department.
He further asserted that they will not only give learners resources but also upskill the teachers who also can upload curriculum, assess learners and tract their performance.
Hoopstad produced 89.4 % percent last year in grade 12 and promise to obtain 100% this year, says school principal Elizabeth Maritele.
Appreciating MTN SA Foundation, Representing Council Learner President , Velile Mgcina promised on behalf of the school that the Grade 12 Class of 2025 will produce 100 % pass rate.
