As part of their corporate social responsibility letmelearn initiative, Business Connexion (BCX) has created a sustainable learning environment at Matladi High School, in the community of Zebediela in Limpopo.

In line with the government’s commitment to the improvement of infrastructure in schools and higher education institutions to create a conducive environment for learning and teaching, BCX has created a computer lab which comprises 105 workstations each with their own notebook, one universal printer, WiFi and monthly Internet access.

“We are excited to be part of this programme that helps change the lives of the community of Zebediela. At Business Connexion we aim to ensure we live the values of our business as well as our mission theme of enriching the communities we operate in.

“This demonstrates our commitment to align with the government to ensure we maximise the approach to deliver education in a manner that best positions our children for the future,” says Arnold Beyleveld, group manager: Marketing Operations and Corporate Social Responsibility at Business Connexion.

Matladi School Princial Sello says “The students are flourishing with the aid of this technology and constantly learning about how technology can assist them and improve their everyday lives. Word of our IT labs has travelled to surrounding communities and we are now in a position where we are having to turn away student applicants”

The school was recently approached by the University of Limpopo to join a programme they’ve established in conjunction with iNeSi, the ikamva National eSkills Institute. The programme is focused on providing education to youth in rural areas through technology.

Outlined in the agreement presented by the University, Matladi will have access to additional bandwidth over and above the bandwidth currently being provided by BCX, online training courses as well as support from a trained facilitator that will dedicate 20 hours per week to teach the students and upskill the teachers at the school.

“We are extremely excited that these efforts we have made with the school are yielding such partnerships that will ensure sustainability for the school and the programme and empower the larger community,” adds Beyleveld.