How Computer Literacy is Empowering Rural Learners
In classrooms across the Western Cape, learning looks different today than it did a generation ago. The world has become digital — the way we study, communicate, and work increasingly depends on our ability to navigate technology confidently. Yet for many rural communities, access to computers and guided digital learning remains limited.
The Light from Africa Foundation’s Computer Outreach Programme was created to help bridge this gap — ensuring that children in rural areas are not left behind in a fast-changing world.
Strengthening Learning Through School-Based Computer Centres
Today, the programme supports school-based computer learning centres in Suurbraak and Mullersrus, where learners take part in regular digital literacy sessions. Using software designed to build numeracy, reading, and problem-solving skills, these sessions help learners develop not only computer competence, but also confidence and curiosity.
Voices From the Classroom
At Mullersrus Primary School, Computer Facilitator Cheryl-dine Hendriks shared:
“The computer centre provides a valuable opportunity to develop computer skills while learning in an interactive and engaging way. The programmes supported by Light From Africa Foundation, such as Cami Maths, Perceptual and Reader, are already improving academic performance and building confidence.”
“As a facilitator, I am able to support each learner at their own level, and they participate with interest and motivation. We are truly grateful for this resource and the support from Light From Africa, which is making a noticeable difference in our learners’ education.”
Learners who once hesitated to try new tasks now log in with curiosity. They help one another. They raise their hands more. They are not just learning — they are believing in themselves.
Programme Reach and Growing Impact
Since the programme’s launch, participation and engagement have grown steadily each year.
In 2023, the total youth participation of the Computer Outreach Programme was 1,151 across Suurbraak and Mullersrus. This number increased to 1,505 in 2024, and is expected to reach 1,700 by year-end of 2025, reflecting growing confidence in the programme among teachers, learners, and parents.
As LFAF Project Coordinator, Godfrey Hendrickse, notes: “This is more than teaching computer skills. It is strengthening academic foundations, expanding future study and employment opportunities, and opening pathways that many learners may not otherwise have seen.”
Looking Forward — and How You Can Help
To sustain and expand this work — including hardware maintenance, software licensing, and facilitator support — ongoing partnership is essential. Your support helps us:
- Keep computer labs open and operational
- Ensure learners receive guided support, not just equipment
- Extend the programme to more rural schools that currently have no access
Join Us in Empowering the Next Generation
- Visit: www.lightfromafrica.com
- Sign up for our newsletter to follow school stories and project updates
- Partner with us to help expand computer access to more communities
Together, we can ensure that no child is excluded from the digital world — because the future belongs to every learner, and every learner deserves the tools to reach it.
