Liquid Tech Empowers 101 North West Learners Through STEM and Digital Literacy

The programme is fully funded by Liquid and is designed to equip learners with the critical skills needed to thrive in South Africa’s evolving digital economy.

In a powerful demonstration of commitment to education, digital inclusion, and youth empowerment, Liquid Intelligent Technologies (Liquid), a business of Cassava Technologies, celebrated the achievements of 101 Grade 12 learners from the Mathibestad region in the North West Province who successfully completed the company’s 2024 STEM and Digital Literacy Programme.

Launched as part of Liquid’s broader mission to drive digital transformation and inclusive growth across Africa, the initiative supports learners from four under-resourced high schools with targeted education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as foundational digital literacy training. The programme is fully funded by Liquid and is designed to equip learners with the critical skills needed to thrive in South Africa’s evolving digital economy.

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Transforming Classrooms into Launchpads for Innovation

Hosted at Sempapa Secondary School, the programme serves learners from surrounding institutions, including Kgaphamadi Secondary, Matlaisane High, and Sekitla Secondary School. Through a combination of supplementary lessons in mathematics, physical sciences, and Microsoft-certified digital literacy modules, learners are not only improving academic outcomes but also preparing for post-school opportunities in tertiary education and technology-driven careers.

“We are investing in the future engineers, scientists, and innovators of South Africa,” said Ziaad Suleman, CEO of Cassava Technologies for South Africa and Botswana. “Empowering learners with both STEM and digital literacy skills ensures they have the tools they need to unlock their full potential and make meaningful contributions to our digital future.”

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State-of-the-Art Learning Environment

At the heart of the programme is a fully equipped Digital Literacy Lab, hosted at Sempapa Secondary School. This facility gives learners access to:

• Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum

• STEM learning content and applications

• Basic and intermediate computer skills training

• Hands-on exposure to ICT tools and online platforms

This digital hub acts as a critical gateway for students in the rural North West to gain competencies that align with global digital standards and workplace expectations.

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Celebrating Excellence and Rewarding Future Leaders

To honour the hard work and determination of the 2024 cohort, Liquid will host an academic awards ceremony and career expo at its Johannesburg headquarters on 25 July 2024. The event will bring together educators, corporate partners, students, and their families to celebrate academic achievements and explore career pathways.

Award categories include:

• Excellence in Mathematics

• Excellence in Physical Sciences

• Most Improved Learner

• STEM Engagement Leader

• Top Digital Literacy Achievers

In a major boost to future prospects, three university bursaries will be awarded to qualifying learners who plan to pursue STEM degrees in 2026. These bursaries underscore Liquid’s long-term investment in South Africa’s next generation of innovators.

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Building South Africa’s Digital Skills Pipeline

Liquid’s STEM and Digital Literacy Programme reflects a holistic approach to social impact, aiming not just to enhance classroom learning but also to bridge the digital divide, especially in underserved communities.

By directly engaging with local schools, deploying technology infrastructure, and aligning with national goals for youth skills development, the programme contributes meaningfully to:

• South Africa’s digital skills pipeline

• Inclusive economic growth through education

• Support for the Department of Basic Education’s STEM priorities

• Private-sector-driven youth empowerment

The initiative is also aligned with Cassava Technologies' continent-wide mission to promote tech-enabled progress in Africa through innovation, education, and infrastructure.

“Initiatives like this are not just about grades; they are about transformation,” added Suleman. “We’re helping young people gain the knowledge, confidence, and tools to build careers, launch ventures, and ultimately shape the future of Africa.”

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Looking Ahead

As the digital economy continues to reshape global job markets, programmes like Liquid’s will play a pivotal role in ensuring that rural learners are not left behind. With the right partnerships, infrastructure, and mentorship, South Africa’s youth can become not just participants, but leaders in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Liquid’s success in the North West Province may well serve as a blueprint for national expansion, ensuring that the spirit of digital inclusion and academic empowerment reaches even more learners across the country.