The Acronis Cyber Foundation is excited to announce the construction of a new school for girls in South Africa, together with our implementing partner Molo Mhlaba.

The project is slated to break ground in April, in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, South Africa. Khayelitsha is one of Cape Town’s largest historic townships, housing over 800,000 individuals living in abject poverty. The township faces high rates of HIV, unemployment, crime, and violence, and a severe lack of sanitation – problems that affect the quality of life for the children. Girls often experience abuse in their daily lives, even at school, making it difficult for many to continue their education.

The new school will provide access to quality STEAM-focused (science, technology, engineering, art/design, and math) education and career orientation for girls between the ages of 9 and 15. And with an extended school day, the school will provide much-needed stability and safety in a positive learning environment.

Once completed, the campus will cater to 200 children, facilitated by 22 teachers and 10 support staff each day. It will have four classrooms for children aged 3-6, and 6-9, as well as a robotics and computer lab hall. The school will also provide a pastoral care program with an in-house social worker and educational psychologist, to help ensure the physical and emotional welfare of the students.

We hope this school can raise the next generation of women leaders who will navigate a variety of social and cultural contexts and remain committed to the development of South Africa.