September 2020.

Following regular engagement and consultation with the Namakwa district Department of Education, Loeriesfontein Wind Farm and Khobab Wind Farm are funding computer-tablets, wi-fi, data and dual memory sticks for the town’s primary and high school, as part of their COVID-19 community support.

The final year of high school is a massive life event, but the impact of COVID-19 has left many Grade-12 learners feeling even more stressed and anxious than would ordinarily be the case, as they deal with the added pressures of being at school amid a global health pandemic and a disrupted school year.

“We are confident that this support will assist Loeriesfontein High School matric learners adjust to the new normal and ongoing challenges caused to education by the pandemic,” explained Vanessa Fredericks, Economic Development Manager for Loeriesfontein Wind Farm and Khobab Wind Farm. While Grade 12 is arguably the most exciting year for any learner as they exit the schooling system and look forward to the next chapter in their young adult lives, the pandemic has created undue challenges to the 2020 cohort. As important social partners, we have a key role to play in smoothing the educational path for these learners as far as possible, allowing them to concentrate on their education which is paramount.

Loeriesfontein High School received 13 tablets, along with an annual supply of data and dual memory sticks, specifically to help Grade 12 learners catch up and keep up to date with the curriculum. The dual memory sticks enable the matric learners and teachers to transfer work from the teacher’s computer to the learner’s device, which assists with work allocation.

“The tablets and data will ensure that matric learners stay on track with their studies and complete all their work for their final year of high school,” said Zelda Zuricka Vos, Principal at Loeriesfontein High School, who expressed her gratitude on behalf of the learners and teachers.

“Matric learners will be able to use the devices both at home and at school, and the data will assist with at-home learning. It is especially important to support these learners during this crucial academic year that has been disrupted by the COVID-19 lockdown,” added Fredericks.