A coding programme developed at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha is gaining international attention, putting local innovation on the global education map.
The programme, called Tangible, has been accepted into the UNICEF led Learning Cabinet, a global platform that recognises education tools proven to be safe, scalable and effective in classrooms around the world.
Designed for schools with and without computers
Tangible was created by the Department of Computing Sciences at Nelson Mandela University and is implemented globally by the non profit Leva Foundation.
What makes the programme stand out is its accessibility. Tangible teaches problem solving and coding concepts through simple, game based activities that work with or without technology. This is especially important in South Africa, where thousands of schools still lack access to computers.
Learning through play
Learners engage with coding through games such as Rangers, which combines problem solving with lessons on rhino conservation, as well as Juicy Gems, Speed Stars and Code Cup.
The games are designed for learners from foundation phase through to higher grades, making coding less intimidating and more engaging from an early age.
A global platform for a local idea
According to Professor Jean Greyling, Head of Computing Sciences at NMU, Tangible’s inclusion in the Learning Cabinet followed a rigorous international evaluation process.
The Learning Cabinet is a joint initiative between UNICEF and global partners, and showcases education tools that demonstrate real learning impact.
From Gqeberha to the world
Since its launch, Tangible has reached more than 350,000 learners across South Africa, Africa, Europe and Asia. The programme also supports teachers with free CAPS aligned lessons distributed via WhatsApp.
For NMU, Tangible represents a South African solution to a global challenge, showing that quality digital education can be inclusive, practical and scalable.
Source and credit: Nelson Mandela University
www.mandela.ac.za
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