How iSchoolAfrica and Apple are transforming learning at one of Soweto’s finest schools
Walking through the gates of Igugu Primary School in Mofolo South, yesterday, I could feel that something significant was happening. The energy was unmistakable — learners, teachers and dignitaries gathered to witness the official opening of the iSchoolAfrica Coding and Robotics Centre.
Igugu Primary School now stands as one of the finest examples of what 21st-century education looks like in Soweto. With a brand-new, state-of-the-art centre, learners here have access to the same calibre of technology education as students in the most well-resourced schools anywhere in the country.
A Partnership Built Over Years, Delivered by iSchoolAfrica
iSchoolAfrica — the education trust that has spent over 15 years driving meaningful change in South African schools — has had a relationship with Igugu Primary spanning more than five years. It is a partnership built on trust, consistency, and a shared belief that every child deserves access to world-class learning.
“We are incredibly grateful for the relationship we have built with iSchoolAfrica,” said Mrs Tshabalala, Principal of Igugu Primary School.
“They have been true partners — not just in providing technology, but in walking with us, developing our teachers, and believing in our learners. This centre is a reflection of what is possible when institutions invest in our community with genuine long-term commitment.”
Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr. Nomusa Dube-Ncube, who attended the launch, echoed the importance of this kind of investment.
“The 4IR is transforming every single industry. Countries that prepare their young people for this revolution will thrive. Countries that don’t will be left behind,” she said.
Coding the Apple Way — Learning Swift
At the heart of the centre is iSchoolAfrica’s Coding and Robotics Programme, delivered through Apple’s Everyone Can Code curriculum. Learners at Igugu Primary School are now coding in Swift — the same programming language Apple uses to build the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
This is not a simplified introduction to technology. It is a world-class programme, supported by dedicated teacher development, ensuring educators are trained and equipped to deliver it with excellence for years to come.
A Gift to the Wider Soweto Community
The vision stretches beyond Igugu’s own walls. iSchoolAfrica and Igugu Primary intend to open the facility and programme to the broader Soweto community — giving neighbouring schools and learners access to the same quality of 4IR education. iSchoolAfrica is also committed to expanding its work across more Soweto schools, ensuring this programme benefits as many learners as possible.
The learners of Igugu Primary are learning to code the way Apple does it. The facilities are here. The programme is here. The talent has always been here.
Igugu Primary School is not catching up with anyone — they are setting the pace.
