by marketing | Oct 31, 2023 | News @ ORT
Johannesburg, South Africa – STET-ORTSA end year event was held on the 24th of October, at the Indaba Fourways, showcasing the remarkable talent and ingenuity of South African learners from primary and high schools from Johannesburg East and Ekurhuleni North Districts.
Since 2017, the STET (Support Teacher Empowerment Trust) and ORT SA, an educational NGO, have forged an unbreakable bond with a share vision; to uplift and empower black South African female teachers leading them towards the forefront of educational excellence.
Ariellah Rosenberg, CEO ORT SA said that “The coding and robotics and Technology in the classrooms programmes, implemented by ORT SA are not just training sessions; they’re transformative experiences. They are a testament to the commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering 21st-century skills, especially in previously disadvantaged communities”.
The projects demonstrated by the learners were designed to highlight innovative solutions for challenges faced in the country, they proudly showcased projects that reflected the 21st-century skills they gained such as collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
One of the standout projects was a Solar Traffic Light system. Developed by Grade 8 learners with the frequent load shedding incidents in mind. This project addresses the rising issue of hijackings and accidents occurring during power outages. The solar-powered system ensures traffic lights remain operational even during load shedding, providing continuous safety for drivers and pedestrians alike. An ‘only in South Africa’ moment arose when the learners set the solar panels in a box that opens automatically to avoid theft.
Another impressive solution was the Noise Detector, developed by Grade 6 learners, the device aimed at promoting a conducive learning environment within schools. This inventive device automatically alerts school principals to specific classrooms that breach a certain noise level. By doing so, it could ensure that disruptions are swiftly managed, allowing educators and learners maintain focus on teaching and learning.
These projects, among many others showcased, are a testament to the fresh thinking and adaptability of our younger generation. They also underline the effectiveness of the ORT programmes in imparting essential 21st-century skills. As these students collaborated on their projects, they cultivated communication skills, often reaching out to experts and local communities for insights and feedback.
STET Partners, principals, teachers, and local officials from the department of education attended the event, all echoing similar sentiments of admiration and pride. The innovation displayed promises a brighter future for South Africa, with its youth leading through innovation and proactiveness.
The event, besides celebrating the accomplishments of these brilliant young minds, has also set a precedent for schools across the country. It’s a call for partners everywhere to further invest in nurturing and honing the skills of our future leaders and innovators.
by marketing | Sep 27, 2023 | News @ ORT
Ariellah Rosenberg, CEO of ORT SA, recently shared her insights during a panel discussion at Limmud Johannesburg’s “AI from A to Z” session on the 27th of August. She delved into the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and the challenges it poses, concerns expressed by many South African educators.
Ariellah firmly believes that while AI will reshape education, human teachers will remain indispensable. AI should be seen as an ally, not a replacement. By automating administrative tasks and personalizing learning paths, AI can give teachers more time to nurture critical thinking, foster collaboration, and important discussions in the classroom. These human interactions, she emphasized, are irreplaceable.
However, Ariellah also pointed out the risk of deepening educational disparities as AI becomes mainstream. Equitable resource distribution and addressing data privacy concerns are essential. ORT SA, dedicated to advancing education, will establish a task force to tackle these challenges, ensuring that AI benefits reach all students while safeguarding their privacy. Ariellah’s vision reminds us that, in this AI-driven world, the heart of education lies in the personal touch of dedicated educators.
by marketing | Sep 27, 2023 | News @ ORT
Imagine if every snowflake were the same, if every person’s brain was wired the same way, and if every experience we had was identical every single day. Sounds boring, doesn’t it?
In South Africa, we take pride in and cherish our individuality and distinctiveness. We build legacies that weave into the rich tapestry of our heritage. It’s this tapestry that gives our lives purpose, strengthens our bonds, and adds a dash of intrigue to our existence.
It’s within this melting pot of diversity that we find room for innovation, and where the essence of love and community truly flourishes
Happy Heritage Month!
May we continue to celebrate our diversity and shared stories for generations to come.
by marketing | Aug 28, 2023 | News @ ORT
As we bid farewell to Women’s Month and welcome the vibrant spirit of Heritage Month, I feel gratitude for the rich tapestry that is South Africa. In the intersection of these two months, we discover stories that weave together the strength of our women and the deep roots of our heritage.
During Women’s Month we celebrated the extraordinary strength, courage, and resilience of the women who have shaped our history. From the fierce women of 1956 who marched to Pretoria, to the modern-day educators, mothers, and entrepreneurs who are redefining the South African landscape. Heritage Month is the canvas on which our story as a nation unfolds. It’s the kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, tastes, and experiences that define us. From the stirring rhythms of the Zulu drums to the intricate Xhosa beadwork, from the soaring melodies in the Cape to the traditional tales whispered in the vastness of the Karoo, every corner of our country has a unique story to tell.
At ORT SA, an educational NGO, our staff diversity goes beyond just South African borders, beautifully encapsulating the rich tapestry that defines, not only our nation, but the global community. Taking a walk through our corridors offers a glimpse into a world mosaic: the symphony of languages goes beyond just isiZulu, English or Afrikaans. Our team’s collective experiences, from different corners of Africa and beyond, ensure that ORT SA isn’t limited in perspective. It’s this wealth of knowledge that shapes our unique approach to education, making it encompassing and reflective of a global narrative. Here, we don’t just celebrate Heritage Month as a South African event, but as a global festivity, recognizing every culture, every tradition, and every story that forms the colourful quilt of ORT SA. With every interaction, every project, and every lesson imparted, we are living proof that heritage, in its truest form, knows no borders.
And as we delve deeper into Heritage Month, I invite you all to immerse yourselves in this spectacular journey of discovery. Attend a traditional dance, learn a new South African song, or simply listen to the tales of our elders. Every day is a chance to celebrate, learn, and cherish the essence of who we are.
Here’s to a month of reflection, appreciation, and celebration!
by marketing | Aug 28, 2023 | News @ ORT
𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭: 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬!
On the 3rd of August ORT SA together with EMET (Energy Mobility Education Trust) celebrated the remarkable achievements of 50 students who completed the ORT IT Bridging Course.
But this graduation event was not just a ceremony; it was the culmination of a visionary partnership between the Energy Mobility Education Trust, and ORT SA. Together, we set the stage for these young minds to excel and become the architects of their dreams.
EMET and ORT SA officials, along with other stakeholders, gathered to celebrate the dedication and hard work that the beneficiaries demonstrated. The speeches from the EMET Programme Manager Ms. Ntandokazi Nodada and ORT SA Head of STEM, Jotham Nzombe, resonated deeply, emphasizing the need for these youths to be the ambassadors of the digital era.
Our collective commitment to empowering dreams has transformed potential into tangible results. These 50 graduates are now equipped to illuminate pathways to success, exploring exciting careers in the digital world and seizing entrepreneurship opportunities.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to EMET for their support in our mission. Together, we will continue to empower more young minds and create a brighter future for all.
by marketing | Aug 11, 2023 | News @ ORT
What a day of empowerment, inspiration, and connection it has been as ORT SA hosted an unforgettable Women’s Day event!
This event served as a vibrant hub for young female professionals and visionary thought leaders to come together, fostering invaluable connections and sparking brilliant ideas.
Our star-studded panel featured voices that truly make waves: Tanya Sachs, a powerhouse image advisor with a remarkable global records. Dr. Nokalika Zwane an innovative visionary, and dedicated researcher in water quality and wastewater treatment, Ariellah Rosenberg, a CEO with an exceptional record in education leadership and Abby Fernandes a female athlete who has shattered barriers and inspired countless young hearts.
The event also dazzled with a captivating fashion show, showcasing the incredible designs of Mapholo Ratau, the creative genius behind Ledikana, an African-inspired fashion label that’s redefining style and empowerment. The garments looked fantastic on the ORT’s staff members who proudly modeled them.
Attendees not only took home headshot photos to enhance their online presence but also experienced the soothing touch of Duchess Aesthetics, a female-owned SMME dedicated to making each guest feel cherished and rejuvenated.
ORT SA is grateful to Astron Energy Development Fund (AEDF) the sponsor of the Astron Energy Isihlangu (Shield) Programme which aims at empowering communities through skills transfer and empowerment. This event was part of the networking events forming part of access to market to the businesses that are part of the programme.
ORT SA is proud for providing a platform that connected, uplifted, and celebrated these phenomenal women.
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