How we help
The education programme targets basic education and enables connected schools, teacher development, and learner support in mathematics, science and English. Our next-generation Connected Schools programme works with government, the private sector and educational institutions to provide connectivity and ICT resources for underserved communities. The end goal is to drive the integration of technology into teaching and learning, leading to digital literacy.
Our teacher and leadership support initiative also provides pedagogical training focused on mathematics and science. In working with teachers and school management teams, the Telkom Foundation ensures that the impact is system-wide and benefits current and future learners.
Learner supplementary teaching programmes aim to improve outcomes in science, technology, English and mathematics – the pillars of the ICT industry. The programme provides support, both face-to-face on Saturdays, and during school holidays, at selected schools. These efforts are supplemented by an online platform, zero-rated by Telkom, called Telkom Lightbulb. This allows high-school learners across the country access to interactive and gamified educational content which is aligned with Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS).
Established in 1998 and registered as a Trust in 2002, it has a proud history of making a crucial contribution to the transformation of disadvantaged communities. The Foundation strives to create sustainable solutions to enhance education and promote the social welfare of our communities. The goal is to positively impact the lives of South Africans by providing access to education, digital literacy and digital skills. This is supplemented by psychosocial support to further facilitate access to economic opportunities, primarily in the ICT sector.
6 000
Foundation has reached over 6 000 teachers nationally
50 000
Learners have been exposed to face-to-face and on-line supplementary learning opportunities
3 000
Digital skills initiatives have touched over 3 000 learners and youth through accredited and unaccredited interventions
Post-school initiatives include workplace exposure and career guidance to ensure that participants have access viable economic opportunities.
In summary, our progressive support to learners extends to:
High School
Supplementary tuition (mathematics, science and English) and basic digital skills - all supported by a holistic psychosocial programme aimed at ensuring wellness while building learner resilience and grit.
Post-School
The comprehensive wrap-around learner support to our bursary alumni includes workplace exposure and guidance to navigate job opportunities.
Beyond the classroom
Given the various psychosocial challenges in the communities in which we work, we support national, zero-rated telephone lines in partnership with Childline South Africa and Lifeline South Africa. We also work with various partners on counselling and awareness programmes.
Mentorship, psychosocial and peer support helps to develop life skills, resilience and the will to win, irrespective of social circumstances. Our hope is to produce a generation of strong, ambitious leaders who will, in time, contribute to economic prosperity in our country and beyond.