Isuzu Motors South Africa has invested close to R2 million in a new artificial intelligence, coding and robotics laboratory at Khulile Primary School in Motherwell, Gqeberha, giving 650 learners access to digital learning technologies.
The facility, developed in partnership with Sifiso EdTech through the Future Nation Foundation, is the second AI Coding and Robotics Lab established by the company in Gqeberha. It will serve learners from Grade R to Grade 7, introducing them to coding, robotics and artificial intelligence while supporting teachers with specialised training.
The investment includes robotics kits, tablets, laptops and a customised computer laboratory. Educators will receive South African Council for Educators endorsed training to help integrate coding and robotics into classroom teaching, with ongoing mentorship and virtual support aimed at ensuring the programme remains sustainable.
The project forms part of Isuzu Motors South Africa's corporate social investment programme, which focuses on helping address South Africa's skills gap by providing learners with access to technology-based education.
"This initiative reflects our belief that preparing young people for the future starts with access today," says Nandi Matomela, Department Executive: Corporate Affairs at Isuzu Motors South Africa.
"As industries continue evolving through digital transformation and automation, every learner deserves the opportunity to develop the skills needed to participate meaningfully in tomorrow's economy. Through this investment, we are not only providing technology but creating opportunities for young people to discover their potential and build brighter futures," she states.
The laboratory is designed to introduce learners to emerging technologies at an early age while developing digital literacy, computational thinking, creativity, collaboration and problem-solving skills. It also aims to create awareness of career opportunities in engineering, software development, mechatronics, automation and artificial intelligence.
Dr Sizwe Nxasana, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sifiso EdTech, says digital skills are becoming increasingly important for young learners. "Coding, robotics and artificial intelligence are no longer future concepts, they are already shaping the world our learners are growing into today. By introducing these skills at primary school level, we are helping learners build confidence, creativity and critical thinking while opening doors to the careers and opportunities of tomorrow."
The programme also focuses on teacher development, covering robotics implementation, programming structures, sensors, actuators, troubleshooting techniques and classroom integration. Sifiso EdTech will continue supporting the school after the laboratory has opened.
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