Mayville Secondary School grade 9 learners at the Innovate Durban eKasi Schools programme launch

ETHEKWINI Municipality’s Innovation Programme, Sakha iTheku is an integral component of the City’s economic development strategy. On 11 May, eThekwini Municipality and Innovate Durban proudly launched the eKasi Schools Programme in Cato Manor which will empower the bright minds of grade 9 students in marginalised areas.

The programme will initially target the Cato Manor, Chesterville, and Wiggins areas. The programme offers grade 9 learners the opportunity to utilise digital technology, guaranteeing that they do not fall behind but instead lead the way forward in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). In an era where digital literacy is not only helpful but also necessary, disparities in access and education must not continue to exist said Justice Matarutse, Innovation Programme Manager. “Our findings revealed a significant gap in basic digital skills among youth, which widens socioeconomic divides and stifles potential,” he said. “With the eKasi programme, we hope to provide grade 9 learners with not just the abilities to use today’s digital technologies, but also to succeed at them.” The eKasi curriculum is developed to provide training sessions covering both hardware and software foundations.

The curriculum covers fundamental Microsoft tools, Google Suite expertise, and a thorough awareness of online safety measures. Councillor Thembu Ntuli said they are committed to nurturing critical skills across various sectors. “Our programmes include Design Thinking workshops, critical skills development in emerging technologies, and basic digital literacy courses that caters to communities.”