The Wespoort Primary Computer Lab is more than just a facility; it is testament to the measurable impact of Inyosi Empowerment’s sustainable community development. Zutari’s is one of Inyosi Empowerment’s long-standing investors. Zutari appointed Inyosi as its Youth Employment Service (YES) Implementation Partner in 2022. Inyosi used this program to ensure the Wespoort Primary Computer Lab facility is now a cornerstone of tech-based education at the school, driven by one of Inyosi’s successful placements.
As Zutari’s YES partner, Inyosi was able to provide comprehensive solution, combining the Zutari-funded YES placement together with the donation of refurbished Inyosi computer equipment, giving valuable technology a crucial second life in the hands of eager students, carefully overseen by a classroom assistant (appointed in terms of a YES employment contract).
The true differentiator in this success story is Mr. Sergio Jacobs, a dedicated individual whose placement at the Wespoort Primary School, as a beneficiary of the Zutari YES program, represents the successful combination of Inyosi’s and Zutari’s combined impact model.
Inyosi, as Zutari’s YES Implementation Partner, placed Mr. Jacobs at the school who quickly proved indispensable. He is now the full-time supervisor at the Wespoort Primary School, absorbed directly by the school thanks to the value he created. This absorption is a powerful example of the YES programme generating sustainable, skilled employment.
Crucially, his presence has directly translated into academic improvement, with the school reporting a significant uplift in students’ maths results since his tenure began. Mr. Jacobs is not just supervising equipment; he is actively mentoring and transforming educational outcomes.
“We are genuinely pleased that we could execute this vision and help Wespoort Primary School,” stated Evan Jones, the CEO of Inyosi. “Seeing our equipment repurposed and knowing we could support this learning initiative is an honour but seeing a placement of our YES programme like Sergio lead this charge is the ultimate reward. Our commitment is to create sustainable impact in the communities we serve, and we look forward to seeing students thrive. We are also delighted that Sergio has been absorbed on a permanent contract by Wespoort School, a testament to Sergio”
The investment, supported by the continuous on-site dedication of Inyosi YES placement, Mr. Sergio Jacobs, has transformed the computer lab into a buzzing hub of academic excellence, directly addressing the digital divide.
- Every student from Grade 3 to Grade 7 now benefits from two, one-hour sessions per week.
- The lab’s primary focus is the Greenshoots programme, where Mr. Jacobs supervises learners working with unique credentials at their own pace. The online communication of results from teacher is a crucial feature which allows for targeted, individualised support to students, leading directly to the improved mathematical competence noted by the school.
- Mr. Jacobs extends his heroics beyond the classroom. Recognising the lack of resources, he supervises the lab after school (Monday to Thursday), providing a dedicated space for Grade 6 and 7 learners to complete their English and Afrikaans creative writing projects.
The response was overwhelming, necessitating the division of students into smaller groups. Teachers have already noted a significant improvement in the timely submission of projects, fostering vital responsibility and time management alongside academic skills, all facilitated by the consistent presence of Mr. Jacobs.
The success of the Wespoort Primary Computer Lab is a powerful testament to the focused corporate impact of Inyosi Empowerment supported by its loyal investors like Zutari who share Inyosi’s commitment to enhancing the lives of all South Africans. By integrating its equipment donation with Zutari’s crucial, highly skilled and funded YES placement like Mr. Jacobs, Zutari and Inyosi didn’t just donate time or technology; they donated a sustainable solution with a dedicated, employed resource to ensure its success.
Thanks to the vision of Zutari and Inyosi, hundreds of students are now better equipped for the challenges of the digital age.
However, the need for sustained and growing support continues. We invite individuals and companies to join this worthy cause. Your contribution can help maintain the equipment, expand the programs, and ensure that every Wespoort student, and future Inyosi YES placements like Mr. Jacobs, have the tools they need to one day succeed into skilled work that will build our economy.
