Teachers dive into hands-on coding at Mapenane School

Teachers at the Mapenane Maths, Science and ICT School of Specialization dove straight into future-ready education training during a recent Tangible Coding Teachers Training workshop.

Dr Bertie Buitendag, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Computer Science. The initiative, hosted by the Tshwane University of Technology’s Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FoICT), equipped educators with practical coding skills through an innovative, technology-light method designed for schools with limited digital resources.

Led by Dr Bertie Buitendag, Senior Lecturer from the Department of Computer Science, who is widely recognised for his contributions to digital education, together with Dr Agnieta Pretorius, Assistant Dean for Postgraduate Studies, Research and Innovation, the workshop introduced teachers to tangible coding, an “unplugged” approach developed by the Leva Foundation as part of its Tangible Africa initiative. The method uses physical tokens to represent coding commands, which participants assemble into sequences that are executed through a mobile app.

Dr Buitendag emphasised the value of coding as a critical skill in a fast-changing world. “I am excited to share my knowledge with everyone, since the school specialises in maths science and ICT, the teachers must understand Coding and Robotics,” he said.

The training was highly interactive from the start. Teachers experimented with tokens, tested sequences and participated in collaborative challenges that demonstrated core coding concepts such as sequencing, loops and problem-solving. What could have been a complex lesson became a playful and engaging experience.

A coding game introduced during the workshop turned theory into action. Laughter and friendly competition filled the room as teachers learned programming logic by “playing”, proving how gamified learning can make intimidating concepts accessible and enjoyable.

For many of the educators, the session offered a clear vision of how coding could transform their classrooms. “As a Computer Applications teacher, I think this training is quite productive since it has instilled more skills in us about coding and robotics, especially as the school is still in the process of introducing a subject that will teach learners about ICT,” said teacher Nduduzo Nkosi.

Mathematics teacher, Anele Mhlungu, echoed the excitement, commenting on how the skills gained could open new opportunities for learners. Upon completion of the training, teachers left motivated and ready to implement practical activities that support critical thinking, creativity and innovation.

The Tangible Coding Teachers Training workshop has been hailed as a success and marks an important milestone in preparing teachers and learners for a world shaped by digital literacy. As the school continues to champion excellence in Maths, Science and ICT, the initiative strengthens its path toward future-ready education.

School Teachers and TUT staff who attended the training. From left Matthews Mfati, Arnold Nkuna, Nduduzo Nkosi and Anele Mhlungu.