By Staff Reporter
news@alexreporter.co.za
Project Isizwe, in partnership with Friends of Alexandra, has proudly announced the official launch of their WiFi project in Alexandra. The launch event took place on Tuesday 17 September, at Joe’s Butchery, with key community members, educators, and project partners gathering to celebrate this milestone in digital inclusion.
The WiFi initiative is focused on transforming education by providing internet access to schools and community centres across Alexandra, bridging the digital divide, and empowering the local population through greater access to information and learning resources.
The event featured presentations from educators and learners showcasing the significant impact the project has already made in their schools and classrooms.
According to the CEO of Project Isizwe, Shireen Powell, the initiative connected 13 schools and multiple community sites across Alexandra, offering uncapped WiFi access.
Powell said by equipping schools with the internet, educators could employ modern teaching tools, while learners gain access to a vast world of knowledge.
She said with 7 community WiFi spots, residents of Alexandra also benefit from enhanced access to information and services.
“This partnership between Project Isizwe and Friends of Alexandra, which runs on fibre provided by Vumatel and internet connectivity from Webafrica, aims to improve education outcomes and drive digital inclusion, especially for learners in historically underserved schools.
“The project has enabled learners and educators alike to interact with innovative digital solutions that are now part of everyday learning experiences.
“This project is a beautiful example of how partnership and collaboration between funders and service providers are able to impact on educational change in South African communities like Alexandra,” said Powell.
She said since the project’s inception in January 2024, the initiative has provided WiFi access to over 5,800 unique users across the community; saved Alexandra residents R2.4 million in mobile data costs; delivered 24.4 TB of data used across 20 sites, including schools and community centres.
She said that with a particular focus on educational impact, the project has connected 4 secondary schools and 9 primary schools, benefitting nearly 1,000 Grade 12s who are using free WiFi not only for school projects but also to expand their learning horizons.
“Educators at schools like MC Weiler Primary have reported a significant improvement in the quality of education. The WiFi has empowered the school to unlock previously unused digital infrastructure, enabling interactive and engaging learning experiences.
“Beyond the classroom, the WiFi is also available at community centres, helping social workers and community leaders better serve vulnerable populations.
“Whether assisting victims of abuse or facilitating healthcare services, the availability of free internet access has transformed community support and engagement.
“The Project Isizwe and Friends of Alexandra WiFi project is not just about connecting schools but also empowering the entire community of Alexandra. This digital transformation project highlights how free and accessible internet can foster educational development, reduce the economic burden of mobile data costs, and offer new opportunities for personal and professional growth.”
Powell said Project Isizwe is dedicated to providing equitable and uncapped internet access to underserved schools and communities in South Africa, helping to bridge the digital divide and enable transformation through connectivity.
Among the guests who graced the event was Mr. Robin Binckes, the Founder of Friends of Alexandra.
Friends of Alexandra is a community-driven organisation focused on uplifting the Alexandra township through various social and development initiatives aimed at improving the lives of residents and fostering sustainable community growth.
For more information, please contact siobhan@projectisizwe.org
