Project achievements

53-panel solar array at Sithobelumthetho Primary School
Funds raised through the first Project Zulu UK Choir Tour in 2013 were used to install a 53-panel solar array at Sithobelumthetho Primary School in Madadeni. Operational since 2014, the system provides a more reliable source of electricity and has significantly reduced the school’s energy costs, enabling financial resources to be redirected towards other educational priorities.

Multi-use sports court at Sipheni Senior Primary School
Using their share of funds raised through the 2016 Project Zulu UK Choir Tour, Sipheni Senior Primary School constructed a concrete multi-use sports court. In constant use since 2017, the facility provides learners with a safe, level surface for netball and other sports during PE lessons, sports activities and break times.

Computer Labs at Jobstown and Umcebowolwazi Primary Schools
UWE Bristol student teams have worked alongside Jobstown and Umcebowolwazi Primary Schools to develop reliable and sustainable IT facilities for learners and staff. Both schools now have functional computer labs and internet connectivity. Educators and learners at both schools have also participated in digital literacy workshops delivered by UWE Bristol Computer Science and teacher education students, helping the school make effective use of its technology for teaching and learning.

New classrooms at Mntimande, Siyawela and Jobstown Primary Schools
Project Zulu fundraising has supported the construction of much-needed additional classroom space across several partner schools. Funds raised from the 2016 and 2018 choir tours supported new classrooms at Mntimande, Jobstown and Siyawela Primary Schools. More recently, funds raised through the 2023 Choir Tour have supported the construction of a new multi-purpose classroom at Jobstown Primary School. In schools where class sizes can reach 60 or more learners, additional teaching space can make a significant difference to the learning environment.

Rainwater harvesting and filtration system at Siyawela Primary School
Between 2018 and 2019, UWE Bristol Civil Engineering students worked with Siyawela Primary School to design and install a rainwater harvesting and filtration system. The system enables the school to capture and store rainwater for use during dry periods and when mains water supplies are unreliable, strengthening the resilience of the school’s water provision.

Irrigated sports field at Sithobelumthetho Primary School
Funds raised through the 2015 Project Zulu UK Choir Tour, together with support from UWE Bristol and The Atlas Foundation, enabled the development of a professional sports field at Sithobelumthetho Primary School. Land previously used for grazing was levelled and secured before irrigation, professional turf and multi-use rugby and football posts were installed. The completed facility provides a high-quality sporting resource for the school and wider community and is also used by the Madadeni Bears rugby team.

Reading books for all Project Zulu partner primary schools
In 2017, UWE Bristol teacher education students raised funds to provide Project Zulu partner primary schools with new reading books covering a range of ages and reading abilities. The provision of resources was complemented by professional development for teachers focused on the teaching of reading, helping schools strengthen reading provision and develop positive reading cultures.

Professional development for English and Mathematics educators
Since 2016, UWE Bristol academics have worked alongside South African educators to deliver school, partnership and district-level professional development in the teaching of reading, writing and mathematics. These activities have helped establish ongoing professional networks through which teachers and UWE Bristol academics continue to exchange ideas, discuss practice and share teaching resources.