Ramalepe Junior Primary School in Lenyenye Township is the first institution in Africa to host the Robotics Lego League Junior Discovery Program.
The pilot project was officially launched at the school on Friday, November 22.
The project introduces learners from the age four to six to robotics.
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Forty learners in total from the school are participating in the program, 20 from Grade R and 20 from Grade 1.
Peter Maleta, Founder of Greater Tzaneen Community Foundation (GTCF), initiated the project to be established in the local school as he believes Information technology can bring solutions to economic and social problems.
“I noticed that there was a gap between the rural and urban areas when it came to technology. I felt it was very important that youngsters from rural areas to be exposed to technology and robotics at a young age. Hence we chose this school to be the first in Africa to launch the project,” explained Maleta.
GTCF is working with the University of South Africa in the pilot project. Patricia Gouws from UNISA said she was excited to be part of the project and to also be part of the launch.
“This project will make sure that kids learn how to work in groups, team work and creativity. People need to embrace the fourth Industrial Revolution it is here and it is a reality. I’m excited to come back next year when the
learners graduate to the junior stage,” said Gouws.
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In July, America robotics students spent two weeks in Tzaneen teaching local learners about robotics focusing in hardware, software and marketing.
The Haenertsburg Rotary hosted the Magoeba Plunge Marathon in which the proceeds will go towards the robotics project and also to the SPCA.
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