Gauteng Pushes Digital Learning with 8,596 Smart Classrooms in Township Schools
Johannesburg – The Gauteng Department of Education has ramped up its drive to turn classrooms into modern digital hubs, rolling out a total of 8,596 smart classrooms so far. This forms part of a bigger plan to boost teaching and learning through top-notch information and communications technology, with a focus on township secondary schools and selected primary schools. The push aims to make education more interactive and fun, helping kids get ready for a tech-driven world.
The department shared these updates in a recent statement, highlighting how these smart setups are changing the game for learners and teachers. With big investments in interactive boards and support for special needs schools, Gauteng is working hard to close gaps in education and give every child a fair shot. As budget squeezes loom, the focus stays on making the most of what’s already in place to keep the momentum going.
Smart Classrooms: A Game-Changer for Interactive Learning
The smart classrooms come equipped with LED interactive display panels that support hands-on lessons. These high-definition screens allow multi-touch use, work with styluses, and connect to software for group activities. They also offer Wi-Fi, LAN, HDMI, USB, and Bluetooth links, making it easy to share ideas and resources.
Full ICT schools get these setups from Grade 7 to 12, while township fee- and no-fee-paying schools have them in Grades 10 to 12, based on if the buildings are ready. Each spot meets basic needs like power, safety, and security before getting the boards. The department has trained teachers on how to use them, with warranties and upkeep included to keep things running smooth.
This rollout ties into the department’s ICT Strategy, started years ago to bring digital tools into everyday teaching. It has helped bridge divides in township areas, where access to tech was often limited. Learners now team up on projects, watch educational videos, and explore subjects in ways that make lessons stick better.
Investments Over the Years: Steady Push Despite Tight Budgets
The department has poured funds into these boards over the last three financial years. In 2022/23, they bought 1,020 units at R123,950 each. The next year, 2023/24, saw 1,000 more at R124,730 per unit. For 2024/25, 500 boards came in at R125,300 each. These costs cover setup, teacher training, and fixes.
Bongani Rainmaker Logistics handles the supply and fitting for the 2024/25 batch, under a R63 million deal, with R62.65 million already paid. Sadly, no new smart classrooms are planned for 2025/26 due to money shortages, but the focus will be on keeping the current ones top-notch and expanding digital access in other ways.
This investment has paid off, with schools reporting better engagement and results. In places like Soweto and Alexandra, teachers say the boards make tough topics like maths and science easier to grasp, helping kids who might otherwise fall behind.
Boosting Special Schools: Specialists and Tailored Learning
Gauteng is also stepping up support for special schools, with 655 full-time experts on board – 522 therapists and 133 nurses. These pros help kids with various needs, while head office and district psychologists cover all schools in their areas. Ratios vary from 1:50 to 1:129 per district, showing a push to give personalised care.
There are 453 teacher spots and 125 specialist roles open, with hiring happening twice a year under national rules. The Occupation-Specific Dispensation helps keep skilled staff by offering better pay and perks.
Learning options include the Technical Occupational Curriculum in 44 schools, the Differentiated Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement for severe intellectual disabilities in 73 schools, and programmes for profound disabilities in 27 spots. Training through groups like the Matthew Goniwe School of Leadership keeps educators sharp, with 99.66% registered and many holding extra quals in inclusive education.
This setup ensures kids with disabilities get the tools to thrive, from therapy to skills training that preps them for life after school.
Spotlight on Samson LSEN School: Building Skills for the Future
In Katlehong’s Maphanga section, Samson LSEN School stands as a key spot for learners with intellectual disabilities. With 486 kids enrolled, the school got R8.9 million for the 2025/26 year to cover teaching, wellbeing, transport, and skills growth.
Half the school day focuses on hands-on skills via the Technical Occupational Curriculum, including consumer studies, motor mechanics, hair care, computer literacy, and woodwork. These are checked by Sector Education and Training Authorities or district units to keep standards high.
Skills rooms funded in 2022 wrapped up late in 2024 and are now getting set for full use, holding up to 15 learners each. The school, near Old Natalspruit Hospital, admits kids through district channels and works hard to give them hope and chances despite challenges.
Nancefield Primary School Upgrade: On Track for Year-End Finish
Over in Eldorado Park, the Nancefield Primary School project is moving ahead at 67% complete, with a target wrap-up by December 2025. The main builder, SMC Construction & Building, teams with DNA Land Use Consultants for expert help. An extra R87 million has been added to the budget to cover costs, and all payments to the contractor are up to date.
The work includes new classroom blocks, carports, walkways, finishing touches, and electrical and mechanical fixes. A recent check by the department’s A-Team showed good progress on ceilings, sports fields, and more. Started after delays, the upgrade aims to give kids a safe, modern space to learn.
This project is part of wider efforts to fix school buildings across Gauteng, tackling backlogs and making sure every child has a decent place to study.
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