A recent ITWeb report revealed that South Africa’s school connectivity project is “not anywhere near completion”, with over 16,000 schools still without internet access despite more than R7 billion spent on ICT rollouts in the past three years (ITWeb). While government plans are important, the reality is simple: parents cannot rely on the state alone to prepare their children for the digital future.
The Connectivity Gap
- Thousands of schools remain offline, especially in rural and under-resourced communities.
- Even when access is provided, teacher training, resources, and support systems often lag behind.
- Learners are being left behind in a world where digital literacy is no longer optional but essential.
Why Parents Must Act Now
Waiting for government projects to catch up will only deepen the digital divide. At Saving Grace Education Group (SGEG), we believe parents must take proactive steps to ensure their children are not disadvantaged.
Practical Steps for Families
- Start at Home: Encourage safe use of digital tools, apps, and online research. Teach children critical thinking and responsible internet habits.
- Use What’s Available: Leverage libraries, community Wi-Fi, or shared learning hubs. Explore affordable bundles, tablets, and zero-rated educational platforms.
- Advocate but Don’t Wait: Engage schools and local leaders for interim solutions, but don’t let delays stall your child’s progress.
- Invest in Digital Skills: Coding, robotics, multimedia projects, and online collaboration prepare learners for the workplaces of the future.
The SGEG Approach
As South Africa’s leading online homeschool provider, SGEG bridges the gap by offering:
- Multiple curriculum pathways (CAPS, Cambridge, Special Needs).
- Flexible, self-paced learning supported by digital platforms.
- A focus on building digital confidence and skills alongside academic success.
Conclusion
The government’s efforts may one day deliver, but time is running out for learners today. Parents must take the lead in preparing children for the digital world. Saving Grace Education Group stands ready to partner with families who refuse to wait for change and want to secure their children’s future now.