Learners at Louville High School in Vredenburg on the Western Cape's west coast are taking a step towards a more connected future after being handed a mobile digital library by the Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli.
The handover is part of ongoing efforts to increase access to digital learning resources, enhance teaching and learning outcomes and promote digital inclusion, especially in schools with limited connectivity and infrastructure.
“As a government, we are committed to building an enabling, inclusive and digitally enabled society. Initiatives like this are aligned with our broader vision of ensuring that no youth is left behind in the digital age. Through this mobile digital library, we take a meaningful step towards ensuring that the right to education and access to information is realized in practice.
“Because when we invest in young people, we invest in the future of our economy, our democracy and our nation,” Mhlauli said on Tuesday.
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Mobile digital libraries provide learners and teachers access to curriculum-aligned content through offline digital platforms, enabling interactive and technology-enabled learning.
“This year also marks 30 years of our democratic Constitution, a living document that enshrines the rights to education, access to information and human dignity. Today, we give practical expression to those rights.
He said, “Because access to education, access to information and access to opportunity are not abstract ideals. They are fundamental human rights. And in today's world, these rights are deeply linked to digital access.”
He expressed concern that South Africa grapples with deep inequalities, particularly within the education system.
“Too many of our youth, especially in disadvantaged communities, are excluded from the digital world that is increasingly defining success in the 21st century. This mobile digital library is a direct intervention into that reality.
The Deputy Minister said, “This says to every learner here that you matter. Your ability matters. And your access to the tools of the future matters. Because in today's world, digital access is no longer a luxury. It is a necessity. It is the foundation on which education, innovation and economic participation are built.”
He encouraged learners in school to explore subjects beyond textbooks, learn new skills and discover new careers.
“Teach yourself to code, research, think critically, and innovate. Because the economy of the future will reward those who create, those who solve problems, and those who lead.
“For teachers and the wider community. Support learners in navigating this digital space responsibly and productively.
“Parents and community members, protect it, support it and be proud of it. It is a shared asset and its success belongs to all of you,” Mhlauli said.
He stressed the importance of government, communities and the private sector working together with a common objective.
“I would like to commend our partners Kumba Iron Ore, Transnet and Ruratech for their commitment to investing in the youth and the future of this country.
Mhlauli said, “This looks like a meaningful partnership. It's not just about corporate social responsibility. It's about co-creating solutions that have lasting impact. When we align resources, expertise and intent, we move faster and go further.”