Tholokuhle Primary School Celebrated as Best School for Coding and Robotics in King Cetshwayo District
The atmosphere was filled with joy and pride at Tholokuhle Primary School as learners and teachers basked in the glory of being crowned the Best School for Coding and Robotics by the King Cetshwayo District. This prestigious award was bestowed upon them during an interschool showcase where schools competed to demonstrate their prowess in coding, robotics, and digital creativity.
The award was presented by Ms T. Mlambo, the Richards Bay Circuit Manager, who graced the ceremony as the official representative of the district. It was a moment of great pride for the school, showcasing how public education can embrace innovation and excellence.
Amongst the schools from the region that participated, Tholokuhle Primary School stood out for its learners’ creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Teachers were beaming with pride as they received their certificates, recognizing the hard work and dedication that brought their learners to the forefront of digital education.
The school’s success can be attributed to the support they received from ORT SA’s Let Kidz Code initiative, in partnership with South32 Hillside. Through this program, 90 learners, including 60 girls, were empowered with hands-on experience in coding and robotics. The program was led by a team of eight committed teachers, including two female teachers and six male teachers.
The recognition from the district validates the impact of Let Kidz Code, equipping learners with essential 21st-century skills and paving the way for innovation and learning. Mr. Thomas Crisos Ndlovu, the program coordinator at Tholokuhle Primary, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We never imagined coding could open so many doors. This award is not just for our school, but for every learner in our school who dreams big.”
Ariellah Rosenberg, CEO of ORT SA, commended Tholokuhle Primary School, saying, “We are incredibly proud of Tholokuhle Primary. This award is a testament to the school’s hard work, the commitment of its teachers, and the enthusiasm of its learners.” She also thanked the King Cetshwayo District and Ms Mlambo for recognizing the transformative power of technology in education.
Tholokuhle’s achievement serves as a reminder that with access to the right tools, support, and training, learners from all corners of South Africa can rise and lead in the digital future. For more information about ORT SA, visit their website at https://www.ortsa.org.za/.