by TINTSWALO BALOYI
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – THE Eastgate shopping centre in Johannesburg has introduced a learning hub, Learnergy, lauded as the first of its kind in South Africa.
Learnergy will provide academic support, skill development, technological and psycho-social resources to students of all ages.
Learnergy’s name is a fusion of “learning” and “energy.”
Ntsako Mhlanga, a social entrepreneur and education advocate, spearheads the initiative.
Mhlanga, a former learner at nearby Jeppe High School for Girls, has dedicated her career to improving educational opportunities for young South Africans.
Her initiatives have led to the provision of mobile classrooms in Limpopo, the development of school libraries, and the production of educational documentaries aimed at improving academic performance.
Saadiyah Kahn, General Manager at Eastgate, expressed enthusiasm for the launch of Learnergy.
“Education is a vital foundation to setting youth up for a promising future and Eastgate is proud to play a role in supporting young learners,” Kahn said.
The executive noted Learnergy would provide a safe space where learners could access the tools, guidance and support they needed to thrive.
“As Eastgate continues to evolve as a hub for both retail and community-driven initiatives, this initiative aligns with our commitment to making a meaningful impact within our community,” Khan added.
In Addition to academic support, Learnergy offers access to digital learning tools, complimentary Wi-Fi and educational software in partnership with Vodacom e-School.
Each learner will receive a device to access online educational content.
The centre also features a mobile iPad lab aligned with the South African school curriculum.
Learnergy offers learners access to tutors, teachers, textbooks and reading material.
The centre also provides extracurricular programmes, ranging from entrepreneurship and robotics to social media and job-seeking skills.
– CAJ News