The DBE, in partnership with the United States Peace Corps, have formalised collaboration aimed at strengthening basic education in South Africa’s rural primary schools. This initiative brings together shared values of service, learning and community development, whilst offering Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s education system.
The US Peace Corps, founded in 1961 by former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, has a longstanding global reputation for promoting peace and friendship through volunteer service. In 1994, South Africa welcomed its first Peace Corps Volunteers following an invitation by President Nelson Mandela. Since then, hundreds of volunteers have supported local efforts in literacy development, classroom assistance and learner support, particularly in provinces such as Limpopo and Mpumalanga.
Under the newly signed Memorandum of Understanding, PCVs will be placed in rural schools to assist with literacy programmes and foundational education initiatives. Their work will complement the DBE’s existing priorities and enhance the efforts of education assistants already making an impact. Volunteers will serve for 24 months, with additional Peace Corps Response Volunteers supporting short-term assignments of 3 to 12 months, based on the needs of the schools.
Each volunteer receives extensive training before deployment, including cross-cultural preparation, technical orientation, safety protocols and an overview of the South African education system. Throughout their service, they receive ongoing support from the Peace Corps and regular site visits to monitor their progress and well-being.
To ensure strong collaboration and community engagement, a Project Advisory Committee (PAC) was formed. This committee includes representatives from the DBE, Peace Corps staff, designated volunteers and school leaders. It will help guide project implementation and ensure alignment with community needs and educational goals.
Peace Corps South Africa’s Country Director, Ms Kristi Raube, expressed her excitement about the partnership, highlighting the importance of long-term relationship-building between volunteers and communities. She described the collaboration as an opportunity to not only support education, but also to promote cultural understanding and personal growth for all involved.
DBE’s Deputy Director-General, Ms Simoné Geyer, echoed this sentiment, describing the initiative as a powerful step towards expanding the reach and quality of education in South Africa’s rural schools. She commended the shared vision and dedication of both partners in working towards inclusive, learner-centered education.
The partnership reflects a strong commitment to empowering young learners, supporting teachers and strengthening communities through education and service. As volunteers take up their roles across the country, they help build a bridge of understanding, learning and mutual respect, laying a strong foundation for the future of South Africa’s children.