The fully equipped Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) classroom was built by German-based software giant, Software AG, in partnership with local non-profit organisation Sakhikamva Foundation. 

Up to 40 learners and their teachers can enjoy new opportunities ahead of the new curriculum changes in 2023.

The internet-connected lab is equipped with tablets and drones and includes Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics and app development software, enabling learners to explore and experiment with the latest technologies that are driving all aspects of the modern world.

Fatima Jakoet, founder of the Sakhikamva Foundation, says that setting up the lab, as well as training the teachers, cost about half-a-million rand. The facility is the latest in Sakhikamva's rollout of specialised tech laboratories in schools serving under-resourced communities. 

It comes just ahead of the new South African coding and robotics curriculum, which recognises that computer science, computer programming and languages need to be components of a basic education.

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Says Jakoet: “The coding and robotics curriculum has not been finalised as yet. The Stream lab is a fully-resourced lab that ensures the development of the essential 4IR skills, such as coding, robotics, design thinking, drone flying and coding, as well as 3D printing.

The Department of Basic Education recently said its coding and robotics curriculum pilot in select grades is “progressing well”.

The department resumed the pilot project this year, after it was forced to halt it as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Says Ndazi Nokoane, transformation director at Software AG: “In line with our commitment to uplifting communities and bringing access to technology, the Stream lab at Voortuitsig is the third 4IR classroom we have supported with the Sakhikamva Foundation.

“Overall, Software AG, together with other partners, has built and supported nine labs around South Africa since 2020. We believe it is vital that these Northern Cape learners are able to get hands-on with the latest technologies and have the chance to build critical problem-solving and innovation skills that will empower them to become future change-makers and innovators in their community.”

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Vooruitsig Principal, Thelma Beukes, says: “Our new lab represents a giant leap for our school community, opening up new opportunities for our children to succeed in subjects like maths and science, while also empowering them to learn about technology and engineering in ways that have not been possible for them before.

“Their learning experiences in the lab will enable them to develop vital skills, such as creative and critical thinking. They will realise the value of good teamwork and see for themselves how important innovation is, how it can change lives for the better, and how they too, can be part of the efforts to improve lives and livelihoods in their own Northern Cape communities.

“We are grateful to our Partners for Possibility representative in the Northern Cape, Cobra Röhm, for setting us on this exciting journey by connecting our school with the Sakhikamva Foundation and Software AG.”

Jakoet notes that they believe that "when it comes to enabling South African youth to develop 4IR skill-sets, no one should be left behind.

"We are delighted that these learners and their teachers in Upington are now going to have a quality tech space to explore, discover, create and learn the skills that are essential in 21st century life.”

ITWeb