Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) has invested close to R2-million in a new AI, Coding and Robotics Laboratory at Khulile Primary School in Motherwell, bringing digital learning tools to 650 learners from Grade R to Grade 7.
The facility, established in partnership with Sifiso EdTech through the Future Nation Foundation, represents the second such laboratory that IMSAf has set up in Gqeberha. The project is designed to provide early exposure to emerging technologies and build foundational digital literacy and computational thinking skills among young learners.
Beyond the physical infrastructure, the investment includes a comprehensive educator development programme. Teachers will receive training endorsed by the South African Council for Educators (SACE), covering robotics implementation, programming structures, sensors, actuators, troubleshooting and classroom integration. Ongoing mentorship, virtual learning support and collaborative networks are also part of the package to ensure sustained delivery of the curriculum.
From left: Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe; Khulile Primary School Principal, Ms Linda Nonxuba; Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Makgabo Reginah Mhaule; and Department Executive: Corporate Affairs at Isuzu Motors South Africa, Nandi Matomela, officially cut the ribbon to open the new AI, Coding and Robotics Lab at Khulile Primary School in Motherwell, Gqeberha. The laboratory is equipped with robotics kits, tablets, laptops and a customised computer suite, allowing learners to engage with coding, robotics and artificial intelligence through hands-on activities. The programme also aims to create early awareness of career pathways in engineering, software development, mechatronics, automation and related fields.
"This initiative reflects our belief that preparing young people for the future starts with access today," says Nandi Matomela, Department Executive for Corporate Affairs at Isuzu Motors South Africa. "As industries continue evolving through digital transformation and automation, every learner deserves the opportunity to develop the skills needed to participate meaningfully in tomorrow's economy. Through this investment, we are not only providing technology but creating opportunities for young people to discover their potential."
Dr Sizwe Nxasana, Founder and CEO of Sifiso EdTech, noted coding, robotics and artificial intelligence are already shaping the world learners are growing into. "By introducing these skills at primary school level, we are helping learners build confidence, creativity and critical thinking while opening doors to the careers and opportunities of tomorrow."
The initiative forms part of IMSAf's broader Corporate Social Investment programme, which seeks to narrow South Africa's skills gap by aligning educational outcomes with the demands of a technology-driven economy.
Staying in the Eastern Cape, Volkswagen Group Africa has completed a photovoltaic solar panel installation at its Component Plant in Kariega, Eastern Cape, as part of its long-term sustainability roadmap.
The project, finalised in June 2026, consists of 1 410 solar panels mounted on the roofs of the building and its car park, along with a ground-mounted section. The facility has a capacity of approximately 0,88MWp.
This installation adds to VWGA's existing renewable energy portfolio, which includes a multi-phase solar array over the employee car park featuring 9 294 panels with a capacity of 5,2MWp, capable of generating 7 125 MWh annually. Similar projects have also been completed on the roof of the Final Assembly building and the engine plant, with capacities of 1,7MWp and 1,0MWp respectively.
The company has been increasing its reliance on green energy sources, and in 2025, Plant Kariega sourced 40% of its energy requirements from renewable sources. The latest project is part of a broader strategy aimed at achieving carbon-neutral electricity in the company's production operations.
"We have made significant strides in recent years towards fully sustainable manufacturing," says Ulrich Schwabe, Production Director at Volkswagen Group Africa. "As a company we remain committed towards practices that are responsible and sustainable, and our work in increasing our green footprint is never done."
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