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Unisa rolls out major school digitisation initiative

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In response to its commitment to community engagement and digital empowerment, Unisa, through the Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) unit in the Gauteng Region, has rolled out a major school digitisation initiative aimed at supporting underserved schools with computer equipment and digital literacy training.

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Daniel Kekane, Finance and Operations Manager, Gauteng Region, together with the Sunnyside hub team, handing over computers to Konjiwe Mabeba, the acting principal of Pretoria Technical High School

The initiative began in 2023 under the leadership of Mosima Tefo (Regional Academic Coordinator, TEL unit), with TEL teams conducting training sessions in fundamental computer skills. This was part of the operational plan, aligned with Unisa’s Catalytic Niche 6: Digitisation and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Pretoria Technical High School was the first to benefit from the training. However, the school lacked the infrastructure to sustain the programme and had limited access to computers.

To overcome this barrier, Unisa opened its computer labs for the continuation of training. Due to time constraints, trainers were permitted only an hour. Still, their commitment to bridging the digital divide remained steadfast. The TEL unit escalated the issue and initiated a computer donation request internally. Schools were provided with an online form to submit their technology needs. The teachers are being trained by digital learning advisors in Tefo’s team.

In March 2025, the Unisa Store responded generously to Tefo and the team’s request by donating a total of 56 computers and 6 printers. Although the first batch of equipment was damaged by a water leak in Building 14, it was promptly replaced. In addition, SK Moseneke Primary School received furniture, including tables and chairs for teachers, enhancing the teaching environment.

At present, four schools have received technology donations:

Name of school

Equipment donated

Pretoria Technical High School

8 laptops, 2 desktop computers

Seabe High School

5 desktop computers, 1 laptop

Tokyo Sexwale Primary School

5 desktop computers, 5 laptops

SK Moseneke Primary School

6 desktop computers, 4 laptops, furniture

This initiative is now a key part of the Gauteng Region’s school literacy programme, driving digital access and inclusion at grassroots level.

The donation and training project represents Unisa’s ongoing dedication to shaping futures through inclusive education and empowerment. We are proud to be part of the solution, preparing our youth for the digital age.

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Daniel Kekane, Finance and Operations Manager, Gauteng Region, and the Sunnyside team handing over computers to the principal of SK Moseneke Primary School, Chris Nong

The school ICT support initiative is continuing, with more schools joining the programme, ensuring impactful engagement under the community outreach programme, and paving the way for future collaborations and capacity-building efforts.

* By Qumbisa Nontobeko Primrose and Mbekwa Hlawulani Election, Communication and Marketing Interns, Gauteng Region

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Publish date: 2025-06-17 00:00:00.0

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