Vodacom spends R4 million on high-tech LAN and learning equipment for special needs school
Vodacom Foundation has invested R4 million in ICT infrastructure at Silindokuhle Special Needs School in e-Mangweni, Mpumalanga, which included an advanced local area network (LAN).
The deployment formed part of Vodacom’s School of Excellence model, launched at the school with the Mpumalanga Department of Education in Nkomazi Local Municipality.
Vodacom said the investment funded advanced ICT equipment, a local area network, special-needs learning equipment, renovated learning labs, and a secure storage facility.
“In addition to the infrastructure, on-site customised training has been provided to educators to ensure effective utilisation of the technology,” Vodacom stated.
“An ICT specialist has also been deployed on-site to provide ongoing technical support and capacity building for the school.”
Vodacom said that these tools would significantly improve learners’ ability to access educational content, communicate effectively, and participate more independently in the learning environment.
Silindokuhle supports learners with severe physical disabilities, including deaf and visually impaired learners, as well as some learners with intellectual disabilities.
Vodacom said it introduced a specialised suite of assistive technologies to enhance accessibility and enable inclusive learning.
“The School of Excellence model is a key pillar of Vodacom’s comprehensive, multi-layered education ecosystem,” the company said.
“This integrated strategy aligns with the government’s ambition to promote academic excellence and ensure equitable, inclusive access to quality education for learners from disadvantaged communities.”
Vodacom said the model currently supports approximately 40,000 learners across 39 schools nationwide.
Each school was strategically located alongside an Early Childhood Development Centre, a Teacher Centre, and a Vodacom ICT Academy.
“This creates an integrated support network that benefits learners, educators, and surrounding communities,” said Vodacom’s managing executive for the Mpumalanga region, Monde Ngcukana.
“At Vodacom, we believe that technology has the power to unlock potential and create opportunities for every learner, regardless of their circumstances.”
Ngcukana said the initiative at Silindokuhle was not only about connectivity, but about dignity, inclusion, and ensuring that no learner was left behind in the digital age.
“We are proud to partner with the Department of Education to bring meaningful solutions that empower learners with disabilities to learn, grow, and thrive,” he said.
“This initiative will serve as a blueprint for Vodacom’s future partnerships with special needs schools, as the organisation continues to expand its impact through technology-driven solutions.”
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