Johannesburg – Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Njabulo Nzuza has handed over a fully equipped computer laboratory to Umdlamfe Secondary School in Esikhawini, Richards Bay.
The handover of the high-tech computer lab on Thursday, 22 January 2026, which was in partnership with global technology brand HONOR South Africa, is part of the government’s BackTo-School Programme.
HONOR South Africa, which delivered the laptops, partnered with the Department of Home Affairs to establish the laboratory to support digital literacy and skills development at the school.
The laboratory will ensure that learners are trained to become active participants in the artificial intelligence sphere while bridging the digital divide, particularly in previously disadvantaged communities.
Speaking during the handover, Deputy Minister Nzuza hailed the unveiling of the laboratory as a positive step in the right direction.
The deputy minister said access to digital learning was a pivotal cog in the development of learners in the 21st century and will go a long way in ensuring a digitally equipped South Africa.
He said the government recognises the development of digital skills as a key element in the advancement of South Africa’s digital economy.
Deputy Minister Nzuza stated: “The world has gravitated towards the 4th Industrial Revolution, and this demands of us to be technologically savvy to be able to meet the challenges of this new and exciting phenomenon.
“The establishment of this computer laboratory demonstrates a commitment on our part to prioritise digital learning to put South Africa in a better position to seize opportunities and manage the challenges of rapid advances in the technological realm.”
The deputy minister added: “We are excited that this facility will play an integral part in the learners’ academic improvement while preparing them to fully embrace the digital world through access to digital resources.
“This will, in future, enable them to navigate the digital economy, apply for jobs online, and explore various work opportunities.”
The CEO of HONOR South Africa, Fred Zhou, said the partnership with the Department of Home Affairs represented a cornerstone of digital literacy and infrastructure missions.
“We are proud to partner with the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Mr Njabulo Nzuza, and the government of South Africa to invest in young minds and future skills,” said Zhou.
“We hope the learners will use this opportunity to learn, explore, and dream big.”
