The Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, today, joins the Shoprite Foundation for the launch of a Robotics and Digital Learning Lab at the Joe Slovo Engineering High School in Khayelitsha, Western Cape Province. With the launch of the Joe Slovo Lab, the Shoprite Foundation has established six robotics labs at six schools across the KwaZulu‑Natal, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga and the Western Cape Provinces.

“The initiative aims to expand access to STEM education to underserved communities by equipping learners with practical skills in coding, robotics, AI, and digital innovation.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ This forms part of a broader national programme, focused on building technology-enabled, future-ready skills,” the Minister said.

The school currently offers basic computer literacy and foundational e-learning exposure. However, access is limited, and the introduction of robotics significantly enhances learners’ digital, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities beyond current offerings. The Joe Slovo Engineering High School is positioned to implement the coding and robotics programme, with infrastructure, teacher training, and curriculum alignment in place to support the rollout.

The rollout at the school presents an opportunity for the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to observe, support and help inform the broader implementation of coding and robotics in public schools, whilst demonstrating integration of coding and robotics into the timetable; showcasing the effective use of a robotics lab; supporting data collection to assess learner outcomes and programme impact; and enabling the school to function as a training and mentoring hub for nearby schools.