Isuzu Motors South Africa introduces cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence, Coding, and Robotics facility at Astra Primary School
In a groundbreaking move, Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) has launched a purpose-built AI, Coding & Robotics Centre at Astra Primary School in Gqeberha on July 24, 2025. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to empower primary school learners with future-ready STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills, focusing on artificial intelligence, coding, and robotics education.
The initiative represents a collaboration between IMSAf, Sifiso EdTech, and LPR Group, aiming to create a dynamic learning space where young minds can explore, innovate, and develop digital and technological competencies from an early age.
Key details and intended impacts include:
- Infrastructure: A dedicated, purpose-built centre equipped with modern technology to facilitate hands-on learning in AI, coding, and robotics.
- Target audience: Primary school learners at Astra Primary School, with the goal to expand STEM capacity at a foundational educational level.
- Educational impact: By introducing advanced STEM concepts early, the centre aims to nurture critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and digital literacy in children, addressing the skills gap in South Africa’s education system.
- Long-term vision: Supporting South Africa’s broader goals of increasing participation in STEM fields, preparing the next generation for technology-driven careers in a rapidly evolving global economy.
The centre aligns with global trends in STEM education and the Department of Basic Education's CAPS-aligned Coding and Robotics curriculum. It will host robotics competitions and coding showcases, promoting learner engagement and community pride.
The centre is more than a technological upgrade; it is an investment in the potential of learners and the future of the province. The total investment in the facility, including the LPR Group's contribution, is over R1.2 million.
The Eastern Cape Education Department Director for e-Teaching and e-Learning, Lutho Kota, stated that the centre will redefine the learning experience for children and prepare them for a digitally driven world. Dr Sizwe Nxasana, CEO of Sifiso EdTech, added that the centre is about supporting young people to develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills and see themselves as creators of technology opportunities, not just followers.
Isuzu Motors South Africa's investment in the centre is aimed at building a digitally competent generation prepared for the world of technology. The facility includes robotics kits, laptops, tablets, advanced coding software, and a fully customised computer lab. The learners at Astra Primary School are set to develop foundational skills in robotics, programming, mechanical design, and digital citizenship.
The initiative is aimed at contributing to inclusive, equitable, and quality education while promoting lifelong learning opportunities. IMSAf's investment reflects a shared commitment to expanding educational opportunities in Gqeberha, as demonstrated by Isuzu Motors South Africa acknowledging the R50,000 contribution from the LPR Group towards this project.
This initiative marks a significant step towards integrating cutting-edge technology education in South African primary schools, potentially serving as a model for similar educational investments nationwide.
- The AI, Coding & Robotics Centre launched by Isuzu Motors South Africa at Astra Primary School is a significant investment in the future, aimed at providing primary school learners with education in technology and digital literacy to help bridge the skills gap in South Africa’s education system.
- The collaboration between IMSAf, Sifiso EdTech, and LPR Group has created a dynamic learning space that encourages young minds to explore, innovate, and develop digital and technological competencies from an early age, aligning with global trends in STEM education.
- By introducing advanced STEM concepts early, the centre aims to nurture critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and digital literacy in children, setting them up for success in technology-driven careers in a rapidly evolving global economy and promoting lifelong learning opportunities.
