WATCH: Learners learn freely during lockdown and beyond
Zoom has come in handy for dedicated teachers whose desire is to empower learners from all grades and backgrounds to excel academically.
Working hand in hand with the Department of Education, committed teachers have partnered to introduce a Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Digital School.
Founded by different scholars, the free online learning platform caters for Grades R to 12 and also offers an online matric rewrite school. It commenced its voluntary services in the beginning of lockdown, carrying out its lessons through Zoom and other social media platforms.
Mayberry Park resident Philisiwe Cele, who is one of the directors and a former Bracken High School teacher, said the programme aims to uplift learners.
“We saw a need to bring the digital school to the masses of South Africa when our country was first stricken by the pandemic. This gigantic ship accommodates learners from all over South Africa and from different races and cultures. We now stand at about three million learners,” she said.
The innovative learning platform had been initiated for matric learners, but its demand paved a way for the team to cater for more grades over time.
“In the early phases of the lockdown we stood at five million learners across the country. We are improving the CAPS curriculum, working with the department which pursued us to add all other subjects to the STEM subjects,” said Cele.
Committed to serve
Its team is said to be comprised of 63 instructors from across the country that are highly qualified in their respective fields, who are also assisted by dedicated technicians.
“Our teachers are from all provinces and they bring enthusiasm into their lesson sessions. They work from homes and whenever we have a meeting we meet through Zoom. We are sponsored by different stakeholders who appreciate our instructors for having to voluntarily offer their services,” said Cele.
Cele said not only is their sole purpose to help learners academically, she said they also wanted to familiarise learners with modern technology.
Enrolment
At a time where Grade 12 learners are busy with preliminary examinations, she told the RECORD the teachers are available to offer their assistance.
“Preliminary exams need thorough preparations from learners and the additional subject materials. These are provided in our platforms to support them throughout the process. We have a dynamic group ready to assist learners,” said Cele.
Cele advised learners to visit public areas that have access to free Wi-Fi often to access information.
Learners can register for free on their website on www.africateengeeks.co.za to get access to links and timetables for all grades and for extra classes.
For more information INCLUDING Matric Rewrites on Failed Subjects, email matriconline@ggma.co.zaÂ
WATCH: A video showing one of the digital video lessons for Grade 12 learners
https://www.facebook.com/AfricaTeenGeeks/videos/2612533229070454
