Ministers and Primedia Cares donate tablets to Forest Village Leadership Academy

Today, the Department of Basic Education, alongside the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies and Primedia Cares, is making a significant step towards digital learning. They are handing over smart learning tablets to students at Forest Village Leadership Academy. This initiative aims to equip learners with essential digital tools, supporting their educational journey and preparing them for the future.

Key details of the tablet handover

• Date: 19 September 2025
• Location: Forest Village Leadership Academy
• Participants:
  • Ms Siviwe Gwarube, Minister of Basic Education
  • Mr Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
  • Primedia Cares (a corporate social investment initiative)
• Activity: Handing over smart learning tablets to learners.
• Beneficiaries: Learners at Forest Village Leadership Academy.

The Department’s commitment to digital education

Today marks an important milestone in our journey to transform education through technology. The Department of Basic Education (DBE), working closely with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies and the generous support of partners like Primedia Cares, is proud to equip the learners of Forest Village Leadership Academy with smart learning tablets. This initiative is more than just providing devices; it’s about opening doors to a world of knowledge, fostering digital literacy, and ensuring that our learners are not left behind in an increasingly digital world.

Our goal is to create an inclusive and dynamic learning environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive. These tablets will provide access to a wealth of educational resources, interactive lessons, and online platforms, making learning more engaging and effective. We believe that by integrating technology into the classroom, we are not only enhancing the quality of education but also empowering our youth with skills crucial for future employment and participation in the digital economy.

This collaboration highlights the power of partnerships between government and the private sector in addressing the critical needs of our education system. We extend our sincere gratitude to Primedia Cares for their commitment to education and their vital role in making this handover possible. The DBE remains dedicated to expanding such programmes across the country, continually seeking innovative ways to support our schools and learners. You can find more information about our broader efforts and initiatives on the official Department of Basic Education website. For more news and updates on departmental activities, please visit School Click News.

Questions and answers for the public

1. What are these smart learning tablets for?
   These tablets are designed to help learners access educational content, participate in interactive lessons, and develop digital skills, making learning more engaging and effective.
2. Which learners will benefit from these tablets?
   Specifically, learners at Forest Village Leadership Academy are receiving these tablets today. The goal is to eventually expand such initiatives to more schools.
3. How does this initiative help students with their learning?
   The tablets provide access to a wide range of digital learning materials, e-books, educational apps, and online resources, which can supplement classroom teaching and support self-study.
4. Is internet access provided with these tablets?
   While the tablets are provided, efforts are being made to ensure schools have connectivity. Details on specific internet provision at Forest Village Leadership Academy can be obtained from the school directly or through the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies.
5. Are teachers trained to use these new learning tools?
   Yes, alongside the provision of devices, the Department of Basic Education often includes training programmes for teachers to ensure they can effectively integrate technology into their teaching methods.
6. How can other schools apply for similar tablet programmes?
   Schools interested in participating in future digital learning initiatives should regularly check the official Department of Basic Education website for announcements and application guidelines.
7. What is the Department of Basic Education’s long-term vision for technology in schools?
   The DBE aims to integrate technology comprehensively across the education system to enhance teaching and learning, promote digital literacy, and prepare learners for the future job market and digital society.
8. How can the public support these digital education efforts?
   Individuals and organisations can support by partnering with the DBE, donating educational resources, or participating in community initiatives. For more information on partnerships, please contact the Department directly through their official channels.