{"id":33678,"date":"2026-03-24T14:11:39","date_gmt":"2026-03-24T14:11:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/?p=33678"},"modified":"2026-03-24T14:12:19","modified_gmt":"2026-03-24T14:12:19","slug":"vut-launches-tv-white-space-project-to-expand-digital-access","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/en_gb\/vut-launches-tv-white-space-project-to-expand-digital-access\/","title":{"rendered":"VUT launches TV White Space project to expand digital access"},"content":{"rendered":"

“VUT launches a TV White Space project to deliver affordable broadband to underserved communities, improving access to education and digital opportunities.”<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

24 March 2026 | Story by: Nontobeko Moimane\u00a0| Picture: Keitumetse Mokgope<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

3 minutes read time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"VUT<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) has taken a decisive step towards bridging South Africa\u2019s digital divide with the launch of its TV White Space (TVWS) Proof of Concept Project on 19 March 2026 at Isak Steyl Stadium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The initiative seeks to deliver affordable and reliable broadband connectivity to underserved communities by harnessing unused television broadcasting spectrum. Implemented in partnership with industry stakeholders, the project reflects a collaborative effort between academia, government, and the private sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Providing an overview of the project, Ms Matshidiso Moloko, Director of Terrestrial-Link, positioned the initiative as a catalyst for social and economic transformation. \u201cAccess to the internet is no longer a luxury, but a fundamental tool for education, economic participation, and social development,\u201d she said. \u201cTV White Space technology enables us to deliver high-speed, cost-effective connectivity over long distances, particularly in areas where traditional infrastructure is either limited or prohibitively expensive.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The project will initially focus on connecting schools within the district, beginning with Suncrest High School. It will utilise sustainable, solar-powered infrastructure to ensure reliability and scalability. The long-term vision is to extend the model across districts and provinces, contributing to a more digitally inclusive South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Welcoming stakeholders, VUT Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Dr Grace Kanakana-Katumba, highlighted the human dimension of the initiative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThis project is not only about infrastructure, but about people. It speaks to learners seeking knowledge, educators striving to teach effectively, and communities working towards development,\u201d she said. \u201cAccess to connectivity has become essential for meaningful participation in the modern world.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The initiative was warmly received by community stakeholders. VUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Khehla Ndlovu, framed the launch as a defining moment for the University, noting that it signals a deliberate shift in how innovation is applied beyond the institution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThis is not merely a project launch; it is a statement of intent,\u201d he said, adding that the initiative reflects VUT\u2019s commitment to extending innovation into communities where it is needed most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He emphasised that the project goes beyond connectivity, positioning it as an enabler of opportunity. \u201cWe are not only providing internet access, we are unlocking possibility and expanding pathways for those who have long been excluded.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From a technical perspective, the project has been in development for nearly two years, according to Mr David Ramasodi, Executive Director of Information Technology Services at VUT. He noted that the initiative aligns with broader institutional efforts to drive digital transformation and expand access to educational resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Student leadership also expressed strong support for the initiative. SRC Deputy Secretary General, Godfrey Mothibe, emphasised the central role of connectivity in enabling opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWe are in a digital era where access to information, learning materials, and opportunities depends on connectivity. This initiative ensures that no one is left behind,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The event featured a performance by the VUT Choir, adding a celebratory tone to the occasion. Proceedings concluded with the symbolic unveiling of the connectivity tower, marking the beginning of what stakeholders described as a movement towards inclusive digital transformation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

VUT extended its appreciation to all partners and sponsors whose support has made the initiative possible. Their continued collaboration plays a vital role in advancing the University\u2019s mission and strengthening its impact within the community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the University continues to position itself as an anchor institution, the TVWS Proof of Concept Project stands as a compelling example of how technology, when placed in service of society, can expand access, restore dignity, and open pathways to opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Catch the full experience on Flickr <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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