Vodacom Foundation partners the Mpumalanga Department of Education to launch R4m School of Excellence model at a Special Needs School in the Nkomazi Local Municipality

MBOMBELA - The Vodacom Foundation, in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Education, today launched the School of Excellence (SoE) model, at Silindokuhle Special Needs School in e-Mangweni. The launch marks another significant milestone in advancing digital inclusion for learners with physical disabilities, ensuring that these learners are not left behind in the Digital Age.

The SoE model is a key 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 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 Silindokuhle, Vodacom reinforces its commitment to the government's 2030 education strategy and extends inclusive digital opportunities to learners with special needs.

Monde Ngcukana, Managing Executive for Vodacom Mpumalanga region commented: "At Vodacom, we believe that technology has the power to unlock potential and create opportunities for every learner, regardless of their circumstances. This initiative at Silindokuhle Special Needs School is about more than just connectivity — it is about dignity, inclusion, and ensuring that no learner is left behind in the digital age. We are proud to partner with the Department of Education to bring meaningful solutions that empower learners with disabilities to learn, grow, and thrive."

The R4 million 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.

Silindokuhle Special Needs School supports learners with severe physical disabilities, including those who are deaf and visually impaired, whilst some learners have intellectual disabilities. Through this intervention, Vodacom has introduced a suite of specialised assistive technologies designed to enhance accessibility and enable inclusive learning.

In addition to the infrastructure, on-site customised training has been provided to educators to ensure effective utilisation of the technology. An ICT specialist has also been deployed on-site to provide ongoing technical support and capacity building for the school.

These tools will significantly improve learners’ ability to access educational content, communicate effectively, and participate more independently in the learning environment.

"This initiative will serve as a blueprint for Vodacom’s future partnerships with special needs schools, as the organisation continues to expand its impact through technology-driven solutions and strategic collaboration," Ngcukana concludes.