Virtual classroom project uncovers photography talent

KAL Group’s social and investment programmes concentrate on peri-urban and rural community development with a special focus on education. At Wemmershoek Primary, KAL’s virtual classroom initiative continues to inspire young minds through the use of technology-based applications. 

Wemmershoek Primary School is located near Franschhoek in the Western Cape where learners are from poor socio-economic backgrounds. The school has 466 learners from Grade R to Grade 7. 

In collaboration with iSchoolAfrica, KAL Group launched its virtual classroom initiative in May 2021, donating 20 iPads and teaching software. The primary objective of the project is to improve the numeracy and literacy skills of learners who are predominantly children of farm workers on neighbouring farms.

The iPad is a device that also offers powerful features to augment learners’ vision, hearing and motor skills. As part of their training, learners are taught how to navigate the features of the iPad, including how to use the camera to
take photos and videos – and edit them.

Grade 6 and 7 learners entered their photos in the #MySA iPhotography category of the annual Excellence in Education Awards. The Awards is a prestigious national competition run by Apple and rewards educators and students who creatively use Apple technology to bring learning to life. The various awards celebrate excellence in leading students to critical thinking, innovation and collaboration.

Learners were challenged to use their iPad camera to capture what they love most about South Africa and what #MySA means to them.
They were judged on their level of artistic expression, innovation and originality.

Wemmershoek Primary was so proud when their very own Britney Witbooi, a Grade 7 learner, was announced as the winner of the #MySA category. Britney took an image of an old railway line in Wemmershoek with a striking view of the Du Toitskloof Mountains in the background. The judges said it was “an excellent shot of the majestic southern sky and mountain ranges, with the train tracks providing leading lines through the scene, luring the viewer to embark on an adventure.”  Britney and her schoolmates cross this train track on their way to school and it is essentially part of her #MySA.

She took home a brand-new set of Apple AirPods for use on her iPad.

"It’s heartwarming to witness how 20 iPads have unlocked a world of learning and new experiences. Learners are discovering what they are capable of through programmes such as iSchool Africa and our partnerships. We will continue to empower and develop learners from our local communities and leave them in a better position to thrive."
 

Barend Sulvester
Senior Manager: Sustainability, KAL Group