# United Siyafunda AI Directory ## About the Organisation United Siyafunda is a Non-Profit Organisation (NPO/NGO) based in Johannesburg, South Africa, dedicated to promoting STEAM education and EduTech resources in under-resourced communities and schools across South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. * **Mission:** Empowering Minds, Bridging Futures. * **Location:** Morkel House, Voorhout Street, New Doornfontein, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 2094, South Africa. * **Contact:** +27 11 484 3004 * **Official Website:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za ## Main Sections * [Home](https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za) - Main portal for United Siyafunda initiatives, teacher training programs, and digital literacy resources. * [What We Do - services](https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/what-we-do) - Our STEAM & EduTech Services. * [Our Blog & Community News](https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blogs) - Latest STEAM and EduTech insights, success stories, and impact updates. ## Our Core Services & Programs ## STEAM Network * **Overview:** Curriculum focused coding, robotics, and AI in Education training programs. * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/services/steam-network United Siyafunda NPC offers three interconnected STEAM programs designed to empower learners, youth, and educators alike. Our three-pillar approach ensures we provide high-quality educational training that bridges the gap between traditional schooling and the demands of the 21st-century economy. --- ## LMS (Learning Management System) * **Overview:** The LMS is a bespoke online educator training program designed to prepare teachers to deliver the South African Coding and Robotics Curriculum. * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/services/lms-learning-management-system In addition to covering the theoretical foundations of coding and robotics, the program places a strong emphasis on 21st-century pedagogical best practices for effective classroom teaching and learning. It is pre-loaded with content, lesson plans, guides, assessment tools to ensure that every educator who completes the program is able to teach coding and robotics through a highly effective STEAM project-based learning approach. --- ## Robotic Buggy Kits * **Overview:** A cost-effective alternative to the leading robotics kits currently available on the market. * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/services/robotic-buggy-kits The buggy is designed with South African schools’ infrastructure in mind, from the design to the ‘puzzle-like’ flexible reassembly. It can readily be re-designed for multiple sensing and control solutions. The buggy can be used with most microcontrollers including, micro:bit, Pico, Arduino, Crumble, etc.. When used with the micro:bit or the Raspberry Pi Pico, the buggy can be coded using the two most widely used control languages in education today, MakeCode and MicroPython. --- ## Workshops * **Overview:** We offer workshop presentations for the STEAM Network, this is a call out service, wherein, we provide all equipment, personnel, and facilitation. * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/services/workshops United Siyafunda offers dynamic workshop presentations through its STEAM Network as a dedicated call out service. This means schools and organisations do not need to worry about sourcing equipment, technical expertise or facilitators. We bring the full experience to you. From the robotics kits and coding tools to the trained personnel who guide each session, everything is provided to ensure a seamless and engaging learning environment. The workshops are designed to be practical, interactive and inspiring, giving learners direct exposure to hands on STEAM activities without the burden of setup or logistics on the host institution. --- ## Latest Blog Posts & Success Stories * **Published Date:** 2026-04-25 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/tech-fusion-event-in-lesotho * **Summary:** On 25 April 2026, United Siyafunda Lesotho achieved a remarkable milestone at the TechFusion event, hosted by Soofia International School in collaboration with MIJS School. Despite being the youngest participants, our team showcased extraordinary talent, proving that age is no barrier to excellence in the world of technology. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-04-23 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/mai-z-and-kitronik-mini-buggies-have-touched-down-in-the-kingdom-of-lesotho * **Summary:** This arrival is more than just a debut, it is a symbol of innovation, adventure, and possibility. The Mai-Z and Mini Buggies bring with them a spirit of exploration, creativity, and joy that is perfectly aligned with Lesotho’s vision of empowering communities through technology and hands-on learning. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-04-20 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/congratulations-to-dieketseng-nibe-our-new-microbit-champion-for-2026 * **Summary:** We are thrilled to announce that Dieketseng Nibe, CEO of United Siyafunda, has been named a micro:bit Champion for 2026, a prestigious recognition of her dedication to expanding digital, coding and robotics skills. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-04-12 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/starlink-has-landed-in-the-gambia * **Summary:** We are excited to announce a transformative partnership in The Gambia, where we are using Starlink technology to provide essential internet connectivity, bridge the digital divide, and revolutionize education in rural schools. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-03-28 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/highlights-from-the-boipabollo-fun-day * **Summary:** On 28 March 2026, United Siyafunda had the pleasure of participating in Boipabollo’s lively Fun Day in Lesotho, bringing together parents and learners for a day focused on community, play, and discovery. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-03-26 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/celebrating-success-at-st-sithians-school * **Summary:** Empowering the next generation starts with hands-on learning. On 26 March 2026, we had the pleasure of visiting St. Sithian’s in Mohaleshoek, Lesotho, to celebrate their achievement of securing second place in the Future Category during the United Siyafunda Lesotho Launch. This visit was instrumental in reinforcing our relationship with the school and fostering a spirit of collaboration to help bridge the digital divide. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-03-23 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/united-siyafunda-receives-generous-donation-of-microbits * **Summary:** United Siyafunda is proud to announce a generous donation of 50 micro:bits from the Micro:bit Foundation, a significant boost to our mission of providing hands-on technology education across Southern Africa. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-03-21 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/united-siyafunda-lesotho-launch-empowering-youth-through-steam-education * **Summary:** We are thrilled to mark a historic milestone for United Siyafunda as we expand our reach into the Kingdom of Lesotho, officially launching our programs at the prestigious Machabeng College. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-03-12 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/free-ai-literacy-course-for-youth-learners-13-16 * **Summary:** United Siyafunda is launching a brand-new, free AI Literacy Course for learners aged 13–16, designed to demystify artificial intelligence and prepare them for a digital future through flexible online learning. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-03-04 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/edtech-resources-catalogue-launched-by-united-siyafunda * **Summary:** We are thrilled to launch our new edtech Resources Catalogue, providing educators with seamless access to the tools needed to drive innovation and bridge the digital divide. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-03-01 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/united-siyafunda-secures-kitronik-distribution-license-in-africa * **Summary:** We are excited to announce our partnership with Kitronik, bringing world-class electronic kits and resources to South African learners to inspire a lifelong passion for discovery. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-02-19 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/united-siyafunda-shines-at-the-tech-sizwe-event * **Summary:** We are honored to celebrate a historic milestone after receiving six awards at the Tech Sizwe Event, recognizing our commitment to driving digital transformation and educational excellence. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-02-13 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/united-siyafunda-promotes-girl-power-with-coding-and-robotics-workshop-in-sebokeng * **Summary:** United Siyafunda is fostering a culture of innovation by uniting learners from 10 different schools for an empowering, hands-on workshop led by inspiring female leaders in tech. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-02-02 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/kelokitso-comprehensive-high-school-mancosa-visit * **Summary:** We are opening doors to the future by connecting Soweto learners with cutting-edge 3D printing technology at the Mancosa campus. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-01-31 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/kasi-business-challenge * **Summary:** Our Technical Director, Zinhle Valemini, is championing the future of education today at the Kasi Business Challenge by bringing affordable, hands-on robotics to underserved communities. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-01-27 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/starlink-promises-free-internet-to-schools-in-south-africa-if-licensed * **Summary:** Starlink’s potential entry into South Africa promises to bridge the digital gap by offering high-speed connectivity to thousands of rural schools across the nation. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-01-26 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/the-mousebot-has-landed-in-south-africa * **Summary:** We are thrilled to bring the MouseBot to South Africa, providing an affordable and engaging way to teach coding and robotics from Grade 1 to Grade 9. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-01-24 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/learners-visit-mancosa * **Summary:** United Siyafunda is sparking a passion for the Fourth Industrial Revolution by connecting learners from Soweto and Orange Farm to hands-on technology experiences. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-01-23 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/british-education-technology-show-2026 * **Summary:** We are proud to announce that Graham Hastings, our curriculum specialist, is representing United Siyafunda at the British Education Technology Show (BETT2026) in London. --- * **Published Date:** 2026-01-09 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/united-siyafunda-prepares-fundraising-video-presentation-for-arm-uk * **Summary:** United Siyafunda recently filmed a short video to support an upcoming fundraising presentation to Arm Holdings in the United Kingdom. This project represents a significant step in our mission to expand access to high quality robot build projects and coding education across underserved communities. --- * **Published Date:** 2025-12-23 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/lms-milestone-reached * **Summary:** We have reached a major milestone in our mission to support educators across the country: Phase 1 of our dedicated edtech learning management system (LMS) is officially complete. --- * **Published Date:** 2025-12-08 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/united-siyafunda-ceo-dieketseng-nibe-on-un-women-itu-collaboration-in-nairobi * **Summary:** United Siyafunda's CEO, Dieketseng Nibe, recently participated in the African Girls Can Code Initiative’s "Train the Trainer" program in Nairobi, Kenya. This significant event, supported by UN Women and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), is a key step in our ongoing commitment to bridging the digital divide across the continent. --- * **Published Date:** 2025-12-04 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/exciting-news-for-next-year-united-siyafunda-will-be-bringing-robot-wars-to-south-africa * **Summary:** We are thrilled to announce that Robot Wars will be an exciting addition to our lineup of workshops, events, and tournaments in 2026! This is a fantastic opportunity for teams to put their engineering skills to the test in a high energy, competitive environment. --- * **Published Date:** 2025-12-01 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/united-siyafunda-ceo-dieketseng-nibe-in-kenya-for-girls-can-code-initiative-with-un-women-itu * **Summary:** Our CEO, Dieketseng Nibe, is representing South Africa in Nairobi, Kenya, for the prestigious ‘Girls Can Code’ event. Supported by UN Women and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), this gathering is a vital platform for WomenInTech to connect and share expertise. --- * **Published Date:** 2025-11-27 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/united-siyafunda-launches-micropegs-free-3d-printer-file-for-educators * **Summary:** United Siyafunda is proud to announce the launch of micro:pegs in South Africa. As part of our commitment to teacher development, we are offering educators a free 3D printer file designed to enhance teaching with the micro:bit platform in both Coding and Robotics. --- * **Published Date:** 2025-11-18 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/building-exciting-partnerships-for-education-in-africa * **Summary:** United Siyafunda is happy to collaborate with any Partner who shares our vision to promote and support Coding and Robotics education across the continent. We believe that building strong alliances is essential to driving sustainable change in edtech. --- * **Published Date:** 2025-11-18 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/sa-coaches-attend-robotics-training-from-us-staff * **Summary:** Over three incredible days, coaches came together to explore new teaching approaches and embrace Project-based learning. Our goal was to align our training with the CAPS curriculum, preparing educators to inspire the next generation of young innovators. --- * **Published Date:** 2025-11-14 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/united-siyafunda-thanks-kitronik-microbit-foundation * **Summary:** United Siyafunda is pleased to announce a significant boost to our ongoing mission. Thanks to the support of Kitronik, we will be receiving discounted robotics boards and complimentary Micro:bits to accelerate our efforts in coding and robotics technical education. --- * **Published Date:** 2025-11-13 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/the-gambian-computer-based-learning-action-research-project * **Summary:** United Siyafunda is dedicated to supporting the transformation of The Gambia’s education system through the introduction of computer-based learning for school children and adults in the local community. We are currently working with Mr. Alpha Bah from the Gambian Ministry of Education to set up an action research project in a rural government school, serving as a proof of concept for how technology can leapfrog traditional barriers to quality education. --- * **Published Date:** 2025-11-12 * **URL:** https://unitedsiyafunda.co.za/blog/artificial-intelligence-olympiad-2026 * **Summary:** At United Siyafunda, we are committed to the mantra: PLAY. LEARN. RISE. We believe that by creating opportunities for our students to engage with cutting-edge technology, we can help them achieve their full potential. ---