iSchoolAfrica which aims to foster an education system inclusive of learners with disabilities and bridging the digital divide in schools, commemorated 15 years of transforming basic education on Friday.
To create a tech-incentive environment in classes, iSchoolAfrica has been donating a secure mobile lab of 20 iPads, loaded with curriculum software, and teacher training and mentoring. The built-in accessibility features of iPads also support children with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive education for all.
Michelle Lissoos, the executive director of iSchoolAfrica, said the iPads have a five- to six-year lifespan, which also continue to contribute to a healthy learning environment in classes in the past years.
“Over the last 15 years, against all odds we have achieved some incredible things, inspiring teachers to love their jobs again, helping children discover their love of learning through iPad lessons, while sparking hope for countless young learners’ futures. The fact that there is no compromise gives educators and learners the confidence that they matter and this is seen through the improved engagement and performance of the students,” she said.
Focused on under-resourced schools in townships and rural areas, the initiative aims to render learners with technological skills, starting from Early Childhood Development (ECD) to Grade 12, from mainstream and special needs schools.
iSchoolAfrica’s key educational focus areas are integrating technological learning tools in ECD classes, including classes for learners with special needs, and honing the numerical skills for learners, using technology.
Boasting other milestones, through partnerships with stakeholders such as Growthpoint, the partners have supported over 25 schools since 2014.
Additionally, since iSchoolAfrica was launched in 2009, the initiative has rendered its service across all nine provinces, impacting 341 schools and trained over 3 000 teachers, which impacted over 100 000 learners.
iSchoolAfrica, partnering with the Imbeleko Foundation, will be launching the first Apple Training Authorised Centre in Africa, in rural KwaZulu-Natal later in the year.
“As iSchoolAfrica celebrates this milestone, our commitment to educational excellence and reducing inequalities remains stronger than ever. We look forward to continuing this journey of empowering South Africa’s youth and transforming the educational landscape for years to come,” said Lissoos.
The Star