To help overcome limited access to technology in lower income communities, ICT distributor Rectron has donated a digital lab to Assar Moloka Secondary School in Duduza township, East of Johannesburg.
The lab forms part of Rectron’s ‘Progressive Educational Upliftment’ (PEU) programme, which was established in 2022 to support technology education in South African’s youth, empowering their future through digital literacy.
“South African’s limited access to digital technology continues to block opportunities for many learners in underprivileged communities,” says Ms Somikazi Chabalala, the District Director of Education for Gauteng East. “Bridging the digital divide is critical to unlocking the country’s untapped potential, especially in the youth.”
According to a study by Africa.com, only 22% of South African households have a computer, while only 10% have an internet connection.
As the world hurtles toward a more digital, automated and interconnected future, many South African schools, particularly those in underserved communities lack sufficient infrastructure to provide training and access to learners.
The ‘Rectron Technolab’ which was officially handed over to the school on the 5th of June is equipped with 41 state of the art compact computers, giving students hands-on experience with modern technology.
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Kutlwano Rawana, Rectron Chief of People ;Mr Sehume, the school principal, Spencer Chen, CEO of Rectron; and Ms Somikazi Chabalala, District Director at the Department of education.
This initiative is one of many, with similar digital labs having already been donated to schools across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Free State.
As part of Rectron PEU programme, these investments seek to increase the quality and access to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education subjects in more disadvantaged communities around the country.
“In an evolving world of rapidly advancing technology and digital economies, Rectron’s technological capabilities and programmes are looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of South African children interested in various STEM fields,” says Kutlwano Rawana, Group HR Executive. “We are thus honoured to partner with schools like Assar Moloka Secondary School to help advance digital access for learners, so they can develop critical skills that will benefit them long into the future,”
Mr Sehume, Principle at Assar Moloka Secondary School, has overseen a remarkable improvement in the school’s pass rate, from 84% in 2023 to 94% in 2024.
He emphasised the transformative impact of technology in education, stating: “Technology can help overcome barriers and support disadvantaged communities, with digital access offering the chance to deliver a more inclusive learning environment for our students.”
“Technological proficiencies such as AI and big data, networks and cybersecurity, and technological literacy are projected to see rapid growth in demand, and all students deserve to be adequately prepared with the right skills,” he added.
By partnering with schools and communities in need, Rectron hopes to not only increase digital access, but also play its part in levelling the playing field between the highest and lowest income groups, equipping South Africa’s youth with the skills and confidence to succeed in tomorrow’s world.
Rectron in STEM
Rectron has committed to supporting communities around South Africa through various social investment programmes focused on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and STEM education.
“Education is one of the most important aspects of the overall economic, cultural, social and technical development in our country and we are committed towards contributing towards a sustainable future for our children,” says Rawana. “As our key corporate social investment initiative, the PEU Programme is targeted at schools in dire need of IT equipment and infrastructure to be able to support their STEM needs.”
