As part of ongoing efforts to prepare the youth for the digital age, Telkom Foundation donated robotics kits to the learners of Ekurhuleni School for the Deaf in Katlehong, south-east of Johannesburg.
Deaf learners primarily rely on visual and tactile methods for their education. “The programme provides the learners with hands-on experience in manufacturing and engineering,” says Ms Judy Vilakazi, Head of Telkom Foundation.
“Beyond the coding skills, the programme also fosters essential soft skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. This contribution strengthens our commitment to closing the digital divide and empowering these students,” she adds.
With the help of this donation, students will be able to apply and expand their knowledge by incorporating the theoretical aspects into their practical experiences through touching, feeling, and experimenting.
The donation is in celebration of Nelson Mandela International Day in honour of Madiba’s legacy of fighting poverty and inequality through education. Telkom employees volunteer their time and skills to support the school. They also donated blankets and painted the school walls and jungle gyms as part of the Winter Drive and Adopt-a-Project initiatives.
Mr Motsamai Mabuya, Ekurhuleni School of the Deaf Principal, says Deaf people are often excluded from society. By empowering them with robotics and coding education, as well as the skills they will develop from this exercise, the learners will be able to join mainstream society.
“This is a dream come true for our learners. If they work hard and complete the programme, they will be able to earn a living and improve their families’ livelihoods,” Mr Mabuya explains.
This initiative will benefit approximately 245 learners from grades RR to 9.
“Today was a special day for us all. While we were here to give and honour Madiba, we received a gift as well – we learned the South African Sign Language,” concludes Ms Vilakazi.
