MDANTSANE- The Eastern Cape Department of Education(EC DoE) handed over tablets to Grade 12 learners at uLwazi High School in Mdantsane on 5th February 2025, this initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and strengthen teaching and learning in the province.
According to EC DoE Director for E-learning Lutho Pota, “We’re thrilled to see our system rolling out ICT devices in our schools enhancing the teaching and learning experience.” Pota expressed hopes that this initiative will improve the province’s 85% pass rate citing the importance of providing learners with additional content beyond textbooks.
The department has also introduced ‘white lists‘– educational websites that learners can easily access. Furthermore, the tablet handover is part of a broader partnership between ECDoE and MTN Eastern Cape.
MTN Eastern Cape regional manager for public sector Sivuyile Mdleleni noted that the partnership aims to provide digital platforms and devices to quintile 1 and 2 schools, complete with mobile device management to guide learners.
In addition, this development marks a significant milestone in the EC DoE’s efforts to integrate technology into education, paving the way for a more inclusive and effective learning experience in the Eastern Cape.
One of the Grade 12 learners Asamelo Nogwebu(17) at uLwazi High School expressed her enthusiasm saying, “These tablets are going to help us as learners and we must use them responsibly and for their intended purpose.” Lindokuhle Mfundweni(18) echoed her sentiments adding, “The tablets will greatly assist us with our assignments and school projects.”
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Education in the Eastern Cape Monde Sondaba expressed enthusiasm for the province’s education department prioritizing e-learning. “We’re pleased that the education department is placing e-learning at the forefront of teaching and learning; quality is our top priority,” Sondaba stated.
Regarding network in some regions of the province the chairperson noted that ECDoE is rolling out Wi-Fi in some schools although it’s still in the functionality testing phase, “We will ensure that the functionality meets the required standards,” Sondaba assured.
This development aligns with the ECDoE’s efforts to enhance digital learning as evident in their recent tablet handover initiative at uLwazi High School in Mdantsane.
Photograph: ECDoE hands over tablets to grade 12 learners in Mdantsane
Photograph: Thando Ngcume
