There were shrieks of delight and gasps of amazement as 1 200 learners from Mveledzandivho Primary School in Soweto were treated to their first ever virtual reality experience as part of the Shoprite Foundation’s Mandela Day celebrations.  

"We look at artificial intelligence (AI) and the integration of digital into our everyday lives, and we realise that there is much work to be done to ensure that all learners are afforded the opportunity to engage with technology in our schools. That is why we are focused on bridging educational gaps by supporting initiatives that prepare young people for future-fit careers and ensure that no child is left behind,” says Maude Modise, managing trustee of the Shoprite Foundation. 

In line with its commitment to enabling teaching environments that are conducive to successful learning, the Foundation also installed a water tank at the school to ensure access to clean water and provided the learners with winter beanies and packs of sanitary pads.  

This support forms part of non-profit Adopt-a-School Foundation’s Back to School for Mandela Day initiative that saw numerous private sector players come together for a common cause: to better equip learners and teachers at the under-resourced school to facilitate the best educational outcomes. 

“Through partnerships with organisations that share our vision, we can elevate the impact we have on uplifting and serving the communities where we operate,” continued Modise. 

The Shoprite Foundation treated the kids with goodie bags containing snacks like sweets and popcorn, with two of the Shoprite Group’s small suppliers, Brown’s Corn Dogs and Precious and Pearl providing corn dogs and Ghemere ginger beer. 

As part of a month-long campaign that celebrates the spirit of Mandela Day, the Shoprite Foundation is also donating school jerseys, essential items and treats to a further 4 200 learners in Shalamuka Primary School in Belfast, Mashudu Primary School in Krugersdorp, Tswelelo Primary School in Randfontein, and Skeen Primary School in Alexandra.