Cell C Expands Digital Inclusion with New Digital Labs in Free State and Northern Cape
These new centres form part of Cell C's focussed investment in meaningful digital access for young people, implemented in close collaboration with the Department of Education.
Cell C has strengthened its commitment to digital inclusion with the handover of two more fully equipped Digital Labs to Kagisho Combined School in the Free State and Gamagara High School in the Northern Cape. These new centres form part of Cell C’s focussed investment in meaningful digital access for young people, implemented in close collaboration with the Department of Education.
Each Digital Lab includes laptops powered by Cell C connectivity, a high-performance server, a projector and the C3 Micro Cloud solution, enabling teachers and learners to access curriculum-aligned digital content, interactive lessons and essential online learning tools. The facilities are designed to make digital education practical, engaging and accessible, especially in communities where technological resources are limited.
Lethiwe Hlatshwayo, Managing Executive:Corporate Affairs at Cell C, said the company’s long-term vision places digital literacy at the centre of community upliftment. She emphasised that digital access is now non-negotiable for young people, and South Africans in general, to thrive and that early exposure can fundamentally shape a learner’s future.
“Our goal is to ensure that we contribute meaningfully to the national imperative to have every learner get the opportunity to gain the digital skills and confidence needed to participate fully in an increasingly connected world.”
– Lethiwe Hlatshwayo, Managing Executive:Corporate Affairs, Cell C
Representatives from provincial education departments welcomed the partnership, noting its direct impact on widening opportunity and strengthening the quality of education. Howard Ndaba, Spokesperson for the Free State Department of Education, highlighted that the investment helps reduce inequality and creates pathways for learners to participate in the digital economy. Delevile Motoneshe, Principal of Gamagara High School, added that the Digital Labs have already changed the way learners access information, complete schoolwork and explore new skills.
By advancing digital access and digital literacy in underserved communities, Cell C continues to champion inclusive education and support South Africa’s broader development priorities, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
