The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, has reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to building a future-ready generation through strategic investment in digital education, following the launch of the Vodacom-Supported School of Excellence and Computer Laboratory at Asibemunye Secondary School in Mpophomeni Township, uMngeni Local Municipality.

Addressing learners, educators, parents, community members and stakeholders at the launch, Premier Ntuli described the initiative as a practical demonstration of the 7th Administration’s commitment to preparing young people for participation in the digital economy.

“The economy of tomorrow will be digital, and the prosperity of our people will depend on whether we prepare our children not for the world as it was, but for the world as it is becoming,” said Premier Ntuli.

The Premier said the launch of the computer laboratory signified more than the delivery of infrastructure, describing it as an investment in the future of learners from rural and historically disadvantaged communities who must be empowered to compete in a technology-driven global economy. He emphasised that geography and socio-economic background must never determine the limits of a child’s ambition. 

Premier Ntuli commended Vodacom for its continued partnership with government and its contribution toward expanding digital inclusion in underserved communities. He praised the company for exemplifying responsible corporate citizenship through sustained investment in education, youth development and digital access.

“Vodacom has demonstrated that true corporate leadership is measured not only by commercial success, but by the willingness to invest in the future of the people it serves. Their partnership continues to help us democratise opportunity and build a digitally capable generation,” said the Premier.

Linking the initiative to the strategic priorities of the 7th Administration, Premier Ntuli said KwaZulu-Natal’s developmental agenda places youth empowerment, skills development and technological readiness at the centre of provincial economic transformation. He reiterated that the Province is committed to producing not only consumers of technology, but creators, innovators and future leaders of the digital economy. 

The Premier further called on the local community, parents and school leadership to act as custodians of the facility, stressing that the long-term value of development depends on the willingness of communities to protect and preserve public assets.

“Development can only transform lives when communities become its custodians. If this community protects and nurtures this investment, it will not be the last opportunity brought here-it will be the first of many,” he said.

Premier Ntuli concluded by describing the launch as a symbol of what can be achieved when government, business and communities work together in pursuit of shared progress, adding that the School Computer Lab hand-over reflects the Province’s determination to ensure that no child is left behind in the digital age.