ADvTECH: Investing in the future through social & environmental commitments

ADvTECH is well on its way to fully implementing its value-add social and environmental programmes in the schools and tertiary division, as part of its commitment to providing students with a competitive advantage while also making an invaluable contribution to sustainability for future generations.

Roy Douglas, ADvTECH CEO, says educational institutions have a particularly important role to play, and that ADvTECH is taking the lead on the educational front in South Africa.

“The education sector’s core role is to educate the citizens of tomorrow, and it would be remiss of any organisation to focus only on academic instruction. This is why we have embarked on a path of creating a blueprint for other institutions to follow, to show how education can make a positive impact through developing future focused ethics in all students.”

SCHOOLS

Respect Diversity and Inclusion (RDI)

On the schools front, ADvTECH has been fast-tracking implementation of its RDI programme across all schools as part of its social investment. In addition, it has partnered with WESSA to build on its environmental programme.

In terms of curricula, ADvTECH has ensured that future-focused teaching and learning is a central pillar of its educational offering.

“We have global competencies built into the way we present our curricula and as additional skills-based development for all students in all of our schools and tertiary institutions,” says Douglas.

“This is further supplemented with an internationally aligned EdTech framework, where the focus is on tech-enabled education. We teach our students to become global citizens as we promote critical, creative, reflective thinking, multi-modal communication and self-management.”

He says ADvTECH recognises the importance of imparting the essential global competencies required for students’ engagement in their lives beyond school and university, and a world that looks very different to the one that existed less than a generation ago.

“Building global citizens within diverse environments is essential for success now and into the future. Our students need to become thinkers and innovators to adapt to the changing future work environment. We continue to ensure this is an integral part of our work. Our Global Citizen framework is intentional and comprises lessons on our core values of respect, diversity and inclusion while embedding essential global competencies into each lesson.”

The Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA),

In a South African first, ADvTECH’s 110 schools have partnered with WESSA, to boost its environmentally-focused value-added curricula and content.

“As part of our commitment to Global Citizenship, in the past three years, ADvTECH have invested heavily in our RDI framework and programme. The WESSA partnership is the next step on this journey, which will focus on raising awareness to imprint the impact of environmentally solution-based thinking for future generations,” says Douglas.

WESSA have also committed to developing a value-add programme framework focused on the environment, similar to ADvTECH’s RDI programme.

The framework will focus on delivering strong, coordinated and comprehensive action that will assist every student to acquire the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to address climate change and to promote sustainable development.

TERTIARY

“At ADvTECH, we are deeply aware of our responsibility, as an employer and educational organisation facilitating the development of tens of thousands of young people across the continent, to put in place programmes and measures to ensure a positive future for society and the planet,” says Douglas.

“We recognise that our natural capital is the foundation of business and society. While investing in environmental sustainability over the past several years, our mission is ongoing, to create value for all stakeholders and contribute to the global goals of sustainable development.”

ADvTECH, through its higher education division, The Independent Institute of Education, is committed to supporting graduates to continue research in social and environmental disciplines. In addition to making a contribution to future sustainability, this focus is also part of its journey to attaining full university status.

“We are particularly focused on renewable energies and water research, as these are key areas where higher education institutions and researchers should be taking the lead,” Douglas says.

Apart from researching solutions of the future, ADvTECH is also implementing changes on the ground, to make an immediate difference. As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability, ADvTECH can report:

36% reduction in water consumption across its sites in 2022
The implementation of water efficiency measures including real-time water consumption measurement, waste-reduction and efficiency-improvement installations with rapid-response capacity for water leak detection and repair,
The integration of environmental awareness across all educational curricula
1 156 new trees planted at ADvTECH sites in 2022, bringing the total to an impressive 253 943, and
The provision of support to a total of 72 environmental projects through CSI.

RESOURCING

ADvTECH is investing not only in ensuring greater access to the highest quality of education, but also into ensure that the continent’s human capital secures gainful employment in the finance, ICT, engineering, supply chain management, logistics, freight, payroll management and contracting sectors and fields. Therefore, ADvTECH’s strategy is to attract, develop and place the best talent across the continent into the career opportunities and workplaces of the future.

As such, ADvTECH’s resourcing division has been increasing its footprint on the continent, with its strategy of entering alternative markets and growing additional business segments.

“We are proud to report that we are having a positive impact on the environment and the communities within which we operate through our group operational footprint of 143 sites and campuses,” says Douglas.

And this impact also makes a difference on a human-to-human, community level, through ADvTECH’s CSI projects, he says.

One of the most effective ways to develop global awareness in students, is to first connect them to their communities beyond the immediate confines of their own families and social environments. This is why ADvTECH aims, in their strategic community engagement initiatives, to lay the groundwork for awareness of interconnectedness through meaningful and relevant service to the community, that enable students to learn from experience while making a contribution to the wellbeing of others and the environment.

“We are developing a new vision of what it means to make a significantly positive impact on what the future might look like. The results from our environmental sustainability programmes and interventions, our future-focused curricula, and community engagement programmes are clear testament to the fact that we are progressively leaving a lasting legacy as a future-focused organisation,” says Douglas.

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ADvTECH Updates

ADvTECH’s Maragon Mooikloof Achieves Top Honours at Northern Gauteng Science Expo

By Tamara Thomas • October 22, 2025

Students from ADvTECH’s Maragon Mooikloof showcased impressive scientific talent at the 2025 Northern Gauteng Senior Science Expo, earning multiple medals and reaffirming The ADvTECH Advantage of consistent, superior academic outcomes. Held on 19–20 September 2025, the Expo brought together some of the region’s most promising young scientists, engineers, and innovators. Competing against top-performing schools from across Northern Gauteng, Maragon Mooikloof learners impressed judges with their creativity, analytical thinking, and practical application of scientific principles standing out as some of the event’s top achievers. Outstanding Achievements for Maragon Mooikloof Students The school’s students demonstrated exceptional ability across several categories, earning both silver and bronze medals for their innovative project s.

Turning pages, sparking magic: why ages 10-12 is the make or break stage for cultivating a love of reading

By Tamara Thomas • October 17, 2025

Children between ages 10 and 12 are at a fascinating stage of life. They’re no longer little kids, but they’re not yet teenagers. They’re starting to ask bigger questions, push boundaries, and search for who they are becoming. Amid all these changes, reading plays a powerful role, and schools and parents should strongly encourage students to build their reading muscle during this time, an education expert says. “In contrast to content on devices, books give children a safe space to explore new ideas, test out possibilities, and imagine life through someone else’s eyes. They also strengthen critical thinking, boost vocabulary, and build empathy - all skills that help pre-teens navigate school and friendships with more confidence,” says Nalani Singarum, Academic Advisor at ADvTECH Schools. “Most importantly, reading at this age lays the foundation for a lifelong habit. A child who enjoys books at ages 10 to 12 is far more likely to carry that love into their teenage years, when the pull of social media and other distractions becomes stronger,” she says. A 2024 study of children aged 10 to 12, by neuroscientists at Columbia University’s Teachers College, found that reading on paper promoted "deeper reading" with better comprehension and processing of complex texts. It was noted that this age group is pivotal for transitioning from "learning to read" to "reading to learn”, making physical books ideal for exploring ideas and imagining others' perspectives without digital distractions. “Even where children at this age did not previously enjoy reading books, it is not too late to develop a regular and enjoyable reading habit,” says Singarum. “Regular reading during this key developmental period will support stronger understanding across subjects, better information absorption, and clearer expression of ideas throughout the child’s life.” CREATING A READING-RICH HOME Pre-teens crave independence, yet they still look to their parents for cues. The best way to nurture reading at this age is to show that it’s valued at home - not as a school task, but as part of family life. Practical ways to create a reading-rich environment include: Bedtime shifts: Before bedtime, spend some time reading side by side. You each choose your own book, then share a favourite line or moment. It shows that reading is for everyone, not just a chore for children. (And no, reading on devices do not count). Reading in everyday life: Invite your child to read maps while travelling, menus at restaurants, or DIY instructions at home. These moments prove that reading has value beyond the classroom. Word of the day challenge: Let your child pick an unusual word from a book and challenge the family to use it naturally in conversation. Older children enjoy the playful competition and sense of mastery. Treasure hunts with riddles: Write riddles or codes your child must solve to find the next clue. Link some clues to favourite books for an extra spark. Peer power: Encourage your child to swap books with a friend or start a mini book club, to make reading become a social, not a solitary activity. THE ROLE OF SCHOOLS Beyond the curriculum, schools play a key role in creating an environment where reading is valued and enjoyable, which helps students build positive associations with books and learning. “Schools offer social and collaborative opportunities that enhance reading motivation and enjoyment. By fostering a love of reading within a communal and supportive learning environment, schools complement and extend the encouragement children receive at home, making the development of reading habits more comprehensive and durable,” says Singarum. She adds that it is valuable to have structured programmes, rather than just ad hoc reading opportunities. “At ADvTECH, we have a reading programme called Booktacular, which is specifically designed to make reading meaningful and magical again. Through activities like Book Clubs that spark lively conversations, creative ‘Book review in a bag’ projects, Literature Circles where every child takes on a role, and Visual literacy tasks that bring pictures to life, children discover that stories are adventures to be explored, not assignments to be completed.” Parents can extend this spirit into their homes with small, joyful habits like these. When reading feels playful and purposeful, children are far more likely to carry that joy into their teenage years and beyond, Singarum says. “Between ages 10 and 12, children are shaping their identities. They’re learning who they are, who they want to be, and how they see the world. Books offer them mirrors to see themselves and windows to step into lives very different from their own. “As parents and teachers, when we nurture a love of stories, we’re not only supporting school success, we’re giving our young people tools for life.”

Mixing business with humanities: empowering graduates requires curricula reform

By Tamara Thomas • October 16, 2025

The traditional dichotomy between commerce and the humanities has long been a fixture in academic and professional landscapes. However this historic status quo is no longer tenable, and universities must adapt to ensure curricula contain a suitable blend of disciplines to empower students for life after studies, an education expert says. “Combining commerce and humanities creates a powerful synergy that enhances decision-making, innovation, and adaptability in business,” says Peter Kriel, General Manager at The Independent Institute of Education, SA’s leading private higher education provider. “This interdisciplinary approach also produces well-rounded professionals who can address the complex challenges of our current world, and the ones they will face in future,” he says. Kriel explains that while universities traditionally had commerce and humanities students stay in their lanes, there is a growing recognition of the synergies that exist at the intersection of these seemingly disparate disciplines. “It is therefore becoming important to delve into the benefits and possibilities of bridging and intersecting the so-called traditional commerce and humanities disciplines, highlighting how this convergence can lead to innovative thinking, enhanced problem-solving, and a more holistic approach to navigating the challenges of the modern world,” he says. The intersection between commerce and humanities represents the blending of analytical and creative thinking. Commerce brings a structured, business-oriented approach, while humanities bring a focus on critical thinking, cultural understanding, and ethical considerations. “Together, these disciplines offer a unique perspective that goes beyond the quantitative aspects of business” says Kriel. Better decision-making The integration of humanities into commerce fosters a more comprehensive decision-making process. By considering ethical, social, and cultural implications, businesses can make informed choices that align with broader societal values. This not only contributes to corporate social responsibility but also enhances the reputation and sustainability of organisations. Innovation through diversity Bridging disciplines encourages a diverse range of perspectives and ideas. The humanities bring creativity, empathy, and an appreciation for diverse cultures, which can lead to innovative solutions to business challenges. A multidisciplinary approach fosters a culture of innovation that goes beyond conventional problem-solving methods. Improved communication Humanities disciplines, such as literature, philosophy, and communication, emphasise effective expression and understanding of human experiences. Integrating these skills into the business realm promotes clearer communication within organisations and with external stakeholders. The ability to articulate ideas, negotiate effectively, and understand different points of view becomes a valuable asset. Ethical leadership Humanities education often emphasises ethical reasoning and moral philosophy. Integrating these principles into commerce promotes ethical leadership, guiding decision-makers to consider the broader impact of their choices on society, the environment, and future generations. Resilience The business landscape is dynamic, and the ability to adapt is crucial for success. Humanities education encourages adaptability by fostering critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a willingness to engage with new ideas. This mindset is invaluable in navigating the uncertainties and disruptions that businesses frequently encounter. “As the nature of work evolves, employers increasingly seek individuals with a diverse skill set that goes beyond technical proficiency. The intersection of commerce and humanities prepares individuals for the future of work by combining analytical and creative skills, making them well-rounded professionals capable of addressing complex challenges,” says Kriel. “This combination represents a powerful synergy that can redefine how we approach business, education, and societal challenges. By breaking down the barriers between these disciplines, higher education institutions can ensure that they not only cultivate more versatile and innovative graduates, but also foster a society that values both economic success and human flourishing.”

Dealings in securities by a prescribed officer of the company

By Tamara Thomas • October 13, 2025

ADvTECH Limited (Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa) (Registration number 1990/001119/06) Share code: ADH ISIN: ZAE000031035 (“ADvTECH” or “the Company”) DEALINGS IN SECURITIES BY A PRESCRIBED OFFICER OF THE COMPANY In compliance with the JSE Limited Listings Requirements the following information is disclosed in respect of dealings in ADvTECH securities by an ADvTECH Prescribed Officer.

Dealings in securities by a prescribed officer of the company

By Tamara Thomas • October 10, 2025

Community Schools Group Excel at Annual Resolute Roboticon

By Tamara Thomas • October 8, 2025

The Annual Resolute Roboticon took place on Saturday, 13 September, at the Heartfelt Arena in Pretoria North, attracting over 3,000 entries from schools across South Africa. Only 360 students were selected to compete, making participation an achievement. The Community Schools Group proudly fielded 12 teams across five competitive categories, representing the Pinnacle Colleges brand: Pinnacle College Waterfall (3 teams) Pinnacle College Rynfield (4 teams) Pinnacle College Linden (1 team) Pinnacle College Kyalami (1 team) Tyger Valley College (3 teams) Our students achieved outstanding results: · Pinnacle College Linden – 1st place in the Advanced Category · Tyger Valley College – 2nd place in both Advanced and Apprentice 3 categories · Tyger Valley College – 3rd place in the Entrepreneurship Category “These achievements underscore the growing impact of Robotics and Coding within the Pinnacle Colleges brand. By immersing students in real-world problem-solving, opportunities such as Roboticon empower learners to thrive in an exceptional and future-focused technology space,” said Altie van Schalkwyk, Academic Head of Brand – Community Schools Group. Initiatives like Roboticon reflect how Pinnacle Colleges are promoting a culture of innovation, preparing students to lead confidently in a technology-driven world.

Little questions, big discoveries: why schools must embrace inquiry-based learning

By Tamara Thomas • October 6, 2025

Children are naturally curious. Whether it’s watching a bug crawl across the floor, splashing in a puddle, or asking “why” countless times in an hour, their world is filled with questions. This curiosity is more than just a phase. It is the foundation of learning and confidence, and should form the starting point for learning at home and at school. Zaakirah Mahomed, Academic Advisor: Foundation Phase at ADvTECH, Africa’s largest private education provider, says Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) is an approach that harnesses children’s innate sense of wonder. “It transforms everyday questions into meaningful discoveries, sparking a lifelong love for learning. For this reason, it is important that when choosing your child’s first school, you ensure the school’s approach is based on harnessing inquiry-based learning, not just handing down of facts. The latter carries a risk that learning is viewed as work from a young age, which can negatively influence attitudes to learning throughout the child’s life.” In a classroom rooted in inquiry, children are not simply passive recipients of facts. Instead, they are encouraged to wonder, explore, and investigate. “Rather than memorising information, learners might explore why leaves change colour, how magnets work, or what creates a rainbow. Guided by their teachers, they investigate these ideas through hands-on activities, experiments, and creative projects. The learning feels like play, but the impact is powerful,” Mahomed says. Research underscores the effectiveness of Inquiry-Based Learning in fostering deeper understanding and retention. A meta-analysis of 54 studies published in American Psychological Association’s Journal of Educational Psychology found that students engaged in IBL demonstrated significantly higher levels of conceptual understanding in science compared to those taught through traditional methods. By actively exploring questions and constructing knowledge through guided investigations, children develop a stronger grasp of complex concepts, as they connect new information to their own experiences and curiosity. This approach not only enhances academic performance but also cultivates a mindset of inquiry that prepares students for lifelong learning, the analysis found. The importance of IBL is further highlighted by its alignment with 21st-century skills. According to a 2020 report by the World Economic Forum, critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity are among the top skills needed in the modern workforce. IBL directly supports the development of these competencies by encouraging children to ask questions, analyse evidence, and collaborate on solutions. “By engaging in inquiry-driven tasks, such as designing experiments or debating hypotheses, students build the intellectual flexibility and resilience needed to navigate an increasingly complex world,” Mahomed notes. IMMEDIATE BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD Inquiry-Based Learning isn’t just about preparing children for the future, however. “IBL fosters engagement, curiosity, and confidence from the very start. Children are encouraged to experiment, make mistakes, and try again. Helping them to see that errors are simply stepping-stones to discovery,” says Mahomed. “When learners test how water flows through a funnel or why a toy rolls differently on tile compared to carpet, they are building critical thinking skills. These problem-solving abilities help them not only with schoolwork, but also in everyday life.” IBL also nurtures collaboration and communication. As children work in small groups or pairs, they learn to share ideas, listen to others, and work as a team. “Even the quietest child can find their voice when their question leads to an exciting experiment or project,” she notes. CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL When selecting a school, parents should look for one that prioritises inquiry as part of its teaching and learning approach. Such schools encourage curiosity-driven lessons, creativity, and real-world problem-solving. “Outstanding foundation phase schools place a strong emphasis on Inquiry-Based Learning and student agency. They proceed from the belief that children should have a voice and choice in their learning, because by taking ownership of their questions and discoveries, children build independence and confidence,” Mahomed says. “Parents can be assured that this approach does more than prepare children academically. It equips them with the resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills they need to thrive in a fast-changing world.”

Crawford International Pretoria School Invasion with Anele and The Club and 94.7

By Tamara Thomas • September 29, 2025

Crawford International Pretoria was buzzing with excitement on Tuesday, 9 September, when one of South Africa’s premier radio breakfast shows, 947’s Anele and the Club, broadcast live from our sports field. The day kicked off bright and early at 06:00 with games, quizzes, and prizes that had everyone involved. From Grade 0000 to Grade 12, our students embraced the challenge—taking part in games of chance, mental agility, and physical skill. The atmosphere was vibrant, colourful, and filled with energy, bringing the entire Crawford International Pretoria community together. A special highlight of the morning was a surprise performance by renowned South African singer, songwriter, and record producer Jeremy Loops, joined on stage by Sibongiseni of the legendary Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Their live performance was nothing short of unforgettable. And to top it all off—we won R50 000 for our school! It was a day to remember, showcasing our unique spirit, talent, and stories to the whole of Gauteng. We truly showed what it means to be #ProudlyCrawfordian.

ADvTECH’s Emeris launch marks a new era for Higher Education in South Africa

By Tamara Thomas • September 19, 2025

JSE-listed ADvTECH has announced the launch of Emeris, a groundbreaking new private higher education brand that will bring the Varsity College, Vega School, and MSA brands together under a single name. One aspect of the change is the building of a state-of-the-art R420m mega campus in Sandton, Johannesburg. This development will bring the existing Varsity College Sandton and Vega Bordeaux operations together on the same site. It will open its doors in 2026 with an initial capacity of 9,000 students. Facilities will include a double-storey library and information centre, a student experience hub with career and counselling services, a custom-designed indoor sports centre capable of hosting international events and innovation spaces including IT labs, podcast studios and interactive mock classrooms.

ADvTECH Introduces Emeris – A New Era in Private Higher Education

By Tamara Thomas • September 18, 2025

Varsity College, Vega, and MSA unite under a bold new brand The Independent Institute of Education (IIE) has announced the launch of Emeris, a groundbreaking new private higher education brand that will bring the Varsity College, Vega School, and MSA brands together under a single name. The new entity will officially launch in 2026. The consolidation under the new name comes as South Africa prepares for legislative reforms that will, for the first time, allow private institutions that meet defined criteria to be recognised as universities.