Change the world

08/08/2025

As part of Mandela University’s Mandela Day outreach initiatives, the Govan Mbeki Mathematics Development Centre (GMMDC) donated tablets and printed workbooks to the Gelvandale Hostel of Hope.  

 

Hostel learners together with Claudia Charles, Hostel Manager, and Dr Catherina Steyn and Natalie Gill, from the GMMDC.

Inspired by Madiba’s enduring belief that “education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” the initiative aimed to empower both learners and educators through influential, peer-supported digital learning and teaching resources.

This once-off effort to expand access to digital and STEM learning included 13 Proline 7 tablets and a collection of printed workbooks (TAPS Guides).

The tablets were preloaded with a carefully curated selection of offline Mathematics and Physical Sciences resources. These include the CAPS-aligned MobiTutorZA software, which enables effective teaching and learning, even in contexts without internet connectivity. This forms part of the GMMDC’s innovative hybrid techno-blended model.

A joint training session was recently hosted, when learners and staff had returned to school for the third term. By identifying 15 champion learners across Grades 10 to 12 to receive this training – alongside key staff – the school began building an internal network of digital leaders, who could support their peers in navigating the educational software and become learning mentors.

This intervention is also well-timed to support Grade 12 learners as they prepare for their trial and final examinations.

This donation marked more than just the provision of devices, it represented a gateway to opportunity, encouraging collaboration, digital confidence, and a deeper engagement with STEM, learning in a way that truly honours the spirit of Mandela Day.

Contact information
Ms Elma de Koker
Internal Communication Practitioner
Tel: 041-504 2160
elma.dekoker@mandela.ac.za