End of Year Newsletter

Imagine a Grade 4 child, nervously stepping onto the Digibus for the first time. The seat is unfamiliar, the screen in front of them daunting, and the task ahead—reading and learning in a foreign language—feels insurmountable. Now fast forward a few months: that same child is seated with quiet confidence, raising their hand to explain how coding can tell a story or solving a math problem with confidence. This transformation is the heartbeat of our year at VUSA—stories of courage, determination, and the extraordinary power of opportunity.

This term, we were honoured to welcome HRH Prince William to the Digibus during his Earthshot tour. His visit reminded us of the long road ahead to safeguard our planet but also reinforced the power of education to drive change. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) drive all our programs, and with the help of partners like ‘Lessons in Conservation’, run by an incredible group of Stellenbosch University students we are embedding these values into our lessons. From teaching conservation to showing children the small actions they can take to care for the planet, we are equipping the next generation with the knowledge and agency to make a difference.

Perhaps the greatest new value we’ve added to our program this year is the arrival of Sabelo Mlonyeni, our social worker. Our children are going through a lot—more than most of us can imagine. Whether it’s struggles at home, challenges at school, or simply the burden of growing up in difficult circumstances, they need someone to guide them through. Sabelo has brought a steady, compassionate presence, catching children who might otherwise fall through the cracks and supporting their families through particularly hard times. We are so grateful to have someone to fill this vital role.

4 November 2024 - A Royal Visit: HRH Prince William Inspires Young Learners on the Atlas Digibus

In a memorable and inspiring visit, HRH Prince William joined the Atlas Digibus as part of his Earthshot Prize tour, offering young learners from Langa a day filled with inpiration and excitement. The Prince’s visit allowed students to showcase the Digibus’s impact while also underscoring the importance of sustainability and innovation—values that resonate with the goals of the Earthshot Prize. For the children on board, this royal encounter was nothing short of extraordinary, sparking dreams of becoming future leaders and innovators themselves.

Reflecting on the impact of the day, Asemahle Mpemba, 12, shared, “I was shy, and it was like I was talking to my father. He was kind and helpful. I hope to meet him again.” Similarly, 12-year-old Litha Mjamba remarked, “I was very excited because I was proud to see someone like him visit us. He is smart, and I saw his kindness when he was helping with the maths.”

These sorts of visits have significant meaning for our children, where access to role models who inspire and encourage young minds can have a lasting impact. Following his departure, rugby icons Tendai Mtawarira and Scarra Ntubeni continued the day’s momentum, speaking with the children and emphasizing the importance of dedication in both studies and sports. For many, the day highlighted the power of positive role models who reinforce the value of hard work and self-belief.

The Atlas Digibus: Empowering Through Education and Technology

The Digibus, a fully equipped mobile classroom with 37 laptops, travels from Bishops daily to five primary schools in Langa, bridging essential educational gaps. Grade 4 students benefit from English literacy support to ease their transition from mother-tongue instruction, while Grade 5 learners gain skills in Maths and Coding. Designed to enhance language and digital literacy, the Digibus empowers students with the tools to succeed academically and develop skills that support lifelong learning.

This initiative is made possible by the steadfast support of Coronation Fund Managers and Bishops Diocesan College. Together, these partners assist us in breaking down barriers of unequal education in South Africa and ensure that more than 1,400 children in Langa have access to quality educational resources and programs.

A Vision for the Future

At its core, the Digibus represents more than just a classroom on wheels; it embodies a vision of equitable education and opportunity for every child. Prince William’s visit, alongside Tendai Mtawarira and Scarra Ntubeni’s words of encouragement, serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when communities, public figures, and organisations come together to make a difference.

With ongoing support from our partners and the commitment of educators and mentors, we look forward to many more moments of inspiration and empowerment for our VUSA children. We are deeply grateful to all who share in our vision of a brighter future through education and are proud to have shared this special day with HRH Prince William.

Newsletter - September 2024

Heritage Day serves as the perfect reminder of what makes VUSA special: our strength in diversity and the shared experiences that unite us. This term has been filled with milestones, growth, and memorable moments that have brought our communities closer.

One of the standout achievements this term was the Investec VUSA 24-Hour Cycle Challenge. With parents, pupils and staff of six schools and various corporates joining in the challenge, the event was a powerful demonstration of what we can achieve when we work together. Thanks to the collective efforts of everyone involved, we raised just over R1.2 million—a testament to the strength of unity and the commitment of our communities in making a difference.

12 June 2024 - Mid-year news

“Our children are the rock on which our future will be built, our greatest asset as a nation. They will be the leaders of our country, the creators of our national wealth, those who care for and protect our people.” - Nelson Mandela -

As we celebrate 30 years of democracy in our nation, we are reminded of both our achievements and the significant work still ahead. While our government plays a crucial role, it is clear that the combined efforts of NPOs, corporate South Africa, and civil society are essential to drive the changes we so desperately need. At VUSA, we are committed to being part of this collective effort, and we are deeply grateful for your continued support.

With so much focus on the election, we wanted to teach our children about the importance of democracy and leadership, so we decided to hold our own elections at VUSA. Each age group voted for a class captain. Through this experience, the children learned about the democratic process, the value of having a voice, and the responsibilities that come with leadership roles. It was an empowering exercise that instilled a sense of participation and community in our young learners.

We are pleased to announce the addition of a social worker to our VUSA team, made possible by the incredible generosity of Ryan Mitchell and his family. This new role will be transformative for our children and their families. When faced with academic and personal challenges, community resources are often scarce, and our children and staff frequently encounter long waiting lists or are turned away due to overburdened government services. We are hopeful that our new social worker will provide the essential support and tools needed to navigate these challenges, making a profound impact on our children and their community.

Our Under 13 children are buzzing with excitement as they prepare to embark on a tour to the Independent Schools Rugby Festival at Woodridge. This opportunity is a chance for our children to experience new environments, build lasting friendships, and develop skills that extend beyond the rugby field. Such experiences are invaluable, fostering personal growth and broadening horizons.

As you scroll down, you will find more details about our ongoing programs and upcoming events (yes, it’s nearly time for the 24-Hour Cycle Challenge). Our rugby season has been exceptional, with our young athletes showing tremendous dedication and growth. The Atlas Digibus continues to drive change in the five primary schools in Langa, bringing digital literacy and education to hundreds of children. Our Early Childhood Development (ECD) program is thriving, providing a strong foundation for our youngest learners.

Thanks to the unwavering support from so many, 1400 children continue to access new opportunities, paving the way to a brighter future for South Africa. Investing in our youth is the best way to create the path to the South Africa we know is possible.

Thank you for being a vital part of this journey. Your support, whether as donor, partner or volunteer, makes all the difference.  

Stay safe and warm these holidays.

Brendan, Nikki, Lebo & Mak & the VUSA Team.

18 March 2024 - First Term Update

In Loving Memory of of Liyabona Mancoba 23/02/2012 - 24/01/2024 RIP

It is with sadness that we begin this newsletter as a tribute, to remember and honor the life of Liyabona Mancoba. Liyabona was not just a participant in our VUSA programme; she was a great teammate, a beloved friend, and a cherished member of our community.

As we navigate this period of grief and remembrance, we also find moments of hope and inspiration in the successes of our participants. Each of our 1300 registered children brings their unique talents and dreams, and it is our mission to support and empower them to reach their full potential.  

It brings us immense joy to share in the triumphs of our participants, such as the remarkable achievement of Onke Mtyotwa, a former VUSA participant, who excelled in the recent matriculation examinations. Onke's recognition at Alan Winde’s prestigious award ceremony serves as a testament not only to Onke’s hard work and commitment but of the talent and dedication within our ranks. However, amidst these shining moments, we must acknowledge the harsh reality that plagues our educational landscape. Despite individual triumphs, the South African schooling system continues to fail countless learners, thereby perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage and disillusionment. It is against this backdrop that our commitment to nurturing academic excellence becomes all the more crucial.