Shoprite and Trevor Noah Foundations Launch New Robotics Lab in Soweto

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Shoprite and Trevor Noah Foundations Launch New Robotics Lab in Soweto

By Noko Maleka | Insight Jozi News | 21 May 2026



JOHANNESBURG a new robotics and digital learning laboratory aimed at equipping township learners with future-focused technological skills has officially been launched at Siyabonga Secondary School through a partnership between the and the .



The initiative, unveiled on Thursday, forms part of broader efforts to improve access to coding, robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital literacy education in underserved South African communities. According to information released by , the laboratory will provide learners and educators with access to advanced technological tools including robotics kits, motion sensors, microcontrollers, and smart devices capable of collecting and communicating data.


The Soweto facility becomes the fifth robotics laboratory established by the Trevor Noah Foundation in Gauteng under its Khulani Schools Programme, which focuses on improving educational outcomes and expanding digital learning opportunities for young people.


Speaking during the launch, Shoprite Foundation Director Maude Modise said robotics education is increasingly becoming essential in preparing learners for a technology-driven future.


“Robotics is no longer a niche area in education,” Modise said, adding that such programmes help learners develop the confidence and technical skills required in a rapidly changing global economy.


The programme introduces a structured pathway for learners from Grade 8 through matric. Grades 8 and 9 learners will participate in curriculum-aligned coding and robotics during formal school hours, while Grades 10 to 12 learners will attend after-school sessions focused on AI, innovation, and career readiness.


According to the Trevor Noah Foundation, the project is intended to do more than simply provide access to technology. The organisation says digital education can help unlock creativity, confidence, problem-solving skills, and future employment opportunities for learners in historically disadvantaged communities.


Educational technology company Sifiso EdTech is responsible for assisting with curriculum development, educator training, and integration of robotics into the school timetable. The organisation says learners will use practical projects to solve real-life community challenges such as water monitoring, safety systems, and environmental management through coding and robotics applications.


The launch follows several similar robotics projects supported by the Shoprite Foundation across South Africa, including initiatives in Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, and Khayelitsha in the Western Cape.


South Africa continues to face significant challenges relating to youth unemployment, inequality in education, and limited access to technological infrastructure in many township and rural schools. Analysts and education stakeholders increasingly view digital literacy, coding, robotics, and AI training as important tools in preparing young people for participation in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the future economy.

Sources :Shopriteholdings.co.za

               : Trevornoahfoundation.org 

               : insightjozinews.org 

This article is based on information released by and additional publicly available educational reports and foundation statements.

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