Vodacom expands School of Excellence programme with R1.5m investment in Eastern Cape

Vodacom expands School of Excellence programme with R1.5m investment in Eastern Cape. The Vodacom has expanded its education initiatives in the Eastern Cape with the rollout of a School of Excellence model at Lavelilanga Senior Secondary School in Komani. The initiative is being delivered through the Vodacom Foundation in partnership with the Eastern Cape Department of Education, marking an investment of just over R1.5m during the first 12 months of a long term collaboration.

The intervention forms part of a broader education ecosystem approach focused on strengthening digital access and supporting academic outcomes in previously disadvantaged communities.

Funding will support upgrades to facilities and digital infrastructure, along with the deployment of ICT coordinators and psychosocial support professionals. The School of Excellence model includes enhanced computer centres, improved security and sanitation infrastructure, connectivity, access to zero rated e learning platforms and on site technical support. Psychosocial staff are also deployed to help address barriers to learning, including violence and gender based violence.

Zakhele Jiyane, managing executive for the Eastern Cape region at Vodacom South Africa, said the initiative aligns with efforts to expand access to quality education through technology enabled solutions. Fundile Gade, Eastern Cape MEC for Education, said public private partnerships remain important in addressing structural education challenges, particularly those linked to digital access.

The model also draws ICT coordinators from Vodacom’s Youth Academy programme, which has trained more than 1,800 young people in accredited ICT skills. Many graduates are deployed across supported schools and communities, providing technical assistance and helping strengthen digital learning environments in areas targeted by the programme. Implementation continues nationally.