Introduction
Many rural schools in SIOC-CDT’s beneficiary communities, particularly in Ga-Segonyana, Gamagara, and Thabazimbi, face limited or non-existent internet connectivity. This lack of reliable internet access prevents students and teachers from fully benefiting from modern digital learning tools, online educational resources, and interactive curricula.
The absence of connectivity limits the integration of critical future-oriented skills such as Coding and Robotics and widens the digital divide between rural and urban learners. Bridging this gap is essential to provide equitable education opportunities, prepare students for the digital economy, and foster a culture of innovation.
About the schools connectivity pilot project
The Schools Connectivity Pilot, led by SIOC-CDT as part of its Schools of Excellence programme, aims to improve digital access in ten selected schools across its beneficiary areas.
The pilot aims to transform the educational experience for rural learners by providing high-speed internet access and building essential digital infrastructure.
The project establishes a robust regional network within participating schools, including essential connectivity infrastructure, data centres, maintenance support, and system management, ensuring three years of uninterrupted and reliable internet access.
This enables students and teachers to leverage digital learning tools, conduct online research, and engage with interactive e-learning platforms. The integration of Coding and Robotics curricula further prepares students with critical future-oriented skills.
Rooted in a principal-led approach, the pilot places school leaders at the forefront of fostering a culture of teaching and learning through enhanced resources and infrastructure.
Six high schools in Ga-Segonyana and Gamagara, along with their 13 feeder primary schools, are included in the pilot programme, providing foundational digital skills and resources to younger learners. SIOC-CDT aims to extend connectivity to an additional ten schools, further promoting equitable access to digital resources across beneficiary communities.
Additional schools in Thabazimbi have been connected through the Wholeschool Development Programme, with plans to extend connectivity to further underserved schools.