Netstar has opened a Digital Learning Centre in Hillbrow aimed at equipping inner-city learners with coding, robotics and problem-solving skills for future careers.
Netstar has opened its first Digital Learning Centre (DLC) at the BG Alexander Estate in Hillbrow as part of a broader initiative focused on expanding access to future-focused education in Johannesburg’s inner city.
The centre was launched in partnership with MES (Mould Empower Serve) NPC and forms part of Altron’s collaboration with citizen movement Jozi My Jozi.
The facility is designed for Grade 7 to Grade 9 learners who often have limited access to STEM education resources such as coding, robotics and structured problem-solving programmes.
Learners will rotate through three dedicated streams including foundational coding and digital literacy, innovative-thinking programmes focused on spatial reasoning and robotics-based engineering challenges.
The centre will also provide access to learners from neighbouring schools during the school day, extending its reach beyond the registered after-care student community.
Incoming Netstar Managing Director Warren Mande said the initiative reflects a long-term commitment to sustainable educational impact.
“We didn’t want a once-off donation or a logo on a wall. We wanted something that compounds year after year, learner after learner,” he said.
Leona Pienaar said the project creates opportunities for children growing up in the inner city.
“Through coding, robotics and innovative thinking, young minds will discover that their future is not limited by their environment but expanded by opportunity,” she said.
The Netstar facility is the second Digital Learning Centre established through the Altron and Jozi My Jozi partnership, following the opening of a similar centre at the Maharishi Invincibility Institute in Marshalltown during 2025.
Altron Group COO Collin Govender said the initiative forms part of the company’s long-term investment in Johannesburg and youth development.
“Two Digital Learning Centres in under a year is exactly the cadence we committed to,” he said.
Innocent Mabusela said the project demonstrates the impact of collaboration between the private sector and civic organisations in revitalising Johannesburg’s CBD and creating opportunities for young people.
The centre will operate year-round, with stakeholders focusing on long-term learner outcomes and sustained educational development.
