The Role of Digital Literacy in Education

February 14, 2025

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, redefining communication, and influencing how people learn. AI-powered technologies such as machine learning, natural language processing, and automation are increasingly embedded in everyday life, from digital assistants to advanced data analytics in education (OECD, 2023). As the world embraces this digital shift, the ability to navigate technology effectively has become essential.


Digital literacy is no longer an additional skill, it is a fundamental requirement for success in modern education and beyond. According to the World Economic Forum (2022), 65% of children entering primary school today will eventually work in jobs that do not yet exist, highlighting the necessity of equipping students with adaptable digital skills.


At Crawford International, Digital Literacy is introduced at the Pre-Primary level, where students engage with technology in structured ways. By the Preparatory phase, this foundation is further enhanced through educational technology (EdTech), providing students with the tools to develop critical thinking, creativity, and responsible digital habits from Grade 4.


What Is Digital Literacy?


Digital literacy refers to an individual’s ability to access, evaluate, create, and communicate information using digital technology. It involves more than just the ability to operate a device, it requires critical thinking, ethical engagement, and adaptability. UNESCO (2023) defines digital literacy as “the ability to access, manage, understand, integrate, communicate, evaluate, and create information safely and appropriately through digital technologies.”


In the 21st century, digital literacy extends beyond basic technical skills. It includes competencies in cybersecurity, online collaboration, media literacy, and digital ethics, all of which are essential for students to navigate an increasingly digital society.


The Core Components of Digital Literacy


To ensure students are equipped for the digital age, digital literacy can be broken down into several key components:


Technical Proficiency


Students must develop the ability to use digital devices, software, and applications confidently. This includes everything from word processing to using cloud-based learning platforms and online research tools (European Commission, 2023). At Crawford, students interact with digital platforms such as Toddle, where teachers and parents engage in real-time communication, reinforcing a collaborative learning environment.


Information and Media Literacy


With the rise of misinformation and fake news, students need to critically assess digital content and distinguish credible sources from unreliable ones. Research from the University of Pretoria (2022) found that 73% of South African students encounter misleading information online. Teaching students how to verify sources, fact-check data, and interpret digital content is crucial.


Cybersecurity Awareness


As digital threats continue to rise, students must understand online safety, data privacy, and responsible digital behaviour. A report by Kaspersky (2023) indicates that 45% of South African parents are concerned about their children’s online safety. Schools play a key role in educating students on creating strong passwords, recognising cyber threats, and practising responsible digital habits.


Digital Communication and Collaboration


The ability to communicate effectively through digital platforms is essential in both academic and professional settings. This includes email etiquette, virtual teamwork, and online discussions. Platforms like Microsoft Teams, Google Classroom, and Toddle help students develop these skills through real-time communication with teachers and peers.


Creativity and Innovation


Beyond consuming digital content, students should be encouraged to create and innovate using digital tools. Whether through coding, video editing, graphic design, or app development, digital literacy fosters problem-solving and creative thinking, which are vital for future careers (World Economic Forum, 2022).


How Digital Literacy Develops Critical Thinking and Collaboration


Digital literacy does not only equip students with technical abilities, it enhances critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability. By engaging with digital tools, students learn to analyse problems, evaluate solutions, and communicate effectively with others. Research from the South African Institute for Distance Education (2023) shows that students who engage with digital learning platforms demonstrate higher levels of problem-solving and independent thinking compared to those who rely solely on traditional learning methods.


Collaboration is another crucial aspect of digital literacy. Online platforms enable students to work together on projects, exchange ideas, and build global connections. For example, at Crawford International, students in the Preparatory phase engage in collaborative digital projects, developing skills in teamwork and digital communication that will benefit them in the long term.


Digital Literacy and Career Readiness


As industries become more technology-driven, digital competence is now a key requirement for career success. The International Labour Organisation (2023) estimates that by 2030, over 80% of jobs will require some level of digital proficiency. This makes digital literacy an essential skill for students preparing to enter the workforce.


Beyond technical skills, adaptability and lifelong learning are crucial. Digital advancements continue to evolve, and students must be prepared to update their skills and stay informed about emerging technologies. Schools that integrate digital literacy into their curriculum equip students with the mindset needed for continuous learning and professional growth.


Addressing the Digital Divide and Online Safety Concerns


Despite the importance of digital literacy, access to technology remains uneven. In South Africa, research from Statistics South Africa (2023) indicates that only 37% of households have access to a computer at home, creating a significant digital divide. To bridge this gap, schools must implement strategies that ensure equal access to digital resources for all students.


Additionally, screen time management and online safety are growing concerns for teachers and parents. The South African Paediatric Association (2023) suggests that excessive screen time can impact cognitive development and sleep patterns in young children. Schools must educate students on responsible technology use, balancing screen time with offline activities, and ensuring online interactions remain safe and appropriate.


Digital literacy is no longer a supplementary skill, it is a fundamental competency that prepares students for the future. As AI and technology continue to redefine education and the workplace, students must be equipped with the skills to navigate, evaluate, and engage with digital tools responsibly.


At Crawford International, digital literacy is embedded into early learning through Pre-Primary and Preparatory Phase programmes that integrate EdTech to develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. With digital literacy becoming a defining factor in academic success and career readiness, schools play a pivotal role in preparing students for a digitally-driven world.

 

Crawford International Class of 2025 | Building Global Leaders

By Karabo Ntsoane • January 16, 2026
The journey to building global leaders begins long before Matric year. For the Crawford International Class of 2025, it reflects three years of focused preparation, academic support and personal growth through the Crawford Matric Preparation Programme. In the 2025 Independent Examination Board National Senior Certificate examinations, Crawford International students achieved a total of 1 428 distinctions across the group. Twenty-one students recorded overall averages of 90% and above, placing them among the country’s top performers, while a further 126 students achieved averages between 80 and 89%. Among the group’s top academic performers are: Manzil Harikaran Giandev from La Lucia with 11 distinctions, including a 100% in Engineering Graphics Design Sashen Ramlal from Lonehill with 10 distinctions. Shweta Singh from Lonehill earned 9 distinctions. Dristhi Ramsumer from North Coast and Celia Wentzel from Sandton earned 9 distinctions. Sanjana Rajkaran from La Lucia earned 8 distinctions. Tayur Lushen Moodley from North Coast: 8 distinctions. Talia Govender and Keith Makadzange from Pretoria: 8 distinctions. Justin Sher and Mthokozisi Buthelezi from Sandton: 8 distinctions. Together, these students represent the highest individual academic achievements across the group. Beyond individual results, Crawford International students also earned national recognition through the IEB. Seven Commendable Achievement Awards were awarded to students ranked in the Top 5% nationally across five or more subjects. Eight Outstanding Achievement Awards were secured by students ranked in the Top 5% nationally across six or more subjects. Dr Siza Majola, Managing Director of Crawford International, shared: “Congratulations to the Matric Class of 2025. This milestone marks the culmination of years of commitment, perseverance and personal growth. You have faced challenges with resilience, embraced learning and demonstrated the determination required to succeed. As you step into the next chapter, remember that your Crawford education has equipped you with the confidence, leadership skills and values to navigate a world full of opportunity. Your achievements are also a reflection of the unwavering support of parents and teachers who walked this demanding journey with you. Their guidance and belief have played a vital role in your success. Well done, Matric Class of 2025. We are proud of all you have achieved and excited to see what lies ahead.” While these outcomes are academic in nature, Crawford International places equal value on leadership development, sport, service and collaboration. Students are encouraged to lead on the sports field, in cultural spaces, through student leadership structures and within their communities. This approach ensures that students leave school not only well prepared for tertiary study but equipped to contribute meaningfully to diverse environments. Distinctions by Campus: Crawford International Sandton College 370 distinctions Average of 3.6 distinctions per candidate Crawford International La Lucia College 316 distinctions Average of 3.19 distinctions per candidate Crawford International Pretoria College 219 distinctions Average of 2.55 distinctions per candidate Crawford International North Coast College 130 distinctions Average of 2.50 distinctions per candidate Crawford International Lonehill College 253 distinctions Average of 2.16 distinctions per candidate Crawford International Ruimsig College 140 distinctions Average of 1.75 distinctions per candidate Crawford International congratulates every student, teacher and family who contributed to this collective success. We wish the Class of 2025 the very best for the future.
Teacher Yvette Rautenbach, Crawford International Pretoria, smiles for

Meet Yvette Rautenbach: Inspiring a love for language at Crawford International Pretoria

November 21, 2025
Yvette Rautenbach is Crawford International’s own Renaissance woman: a coffee-loving, quiz-night ace, with a flair for fashion, a knack for interior décor, and a passion for rugby and cricket. But above all, Yvette lives and breathes teaching Afrikaans, bringing her inspired love of the language to her classrooms every day. The Road to Teaching With a BED Degree in Education from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and an Honours degree in Afrikaans from Stellenbosch University, Yvette has pursued her passion for Afrikaans all the way to becoming qualified to study for her master’s degree in 2009. Her journey began with a Grade 12 teacher who brought Afrikaans poetry and literature to life, and Yvette has been paying that inspiration forward ever since. More than Just Subject Matter For Yvette, teaching isn’t only about the curriculum. “How you make students feel can mean more than what you teach them,” she says. Her aim is to create a classroom where students feel supported, safe, and ready to thrive. She’s built connections that last long past graduation, and her proudest moments come from hearing from former students still grateful for her impact. A Day in the Life… Every day is fuelled by her favourite Nescafé Cappuccinos and her fantastic team of Crawford colleagues who, in her words, “make even the most challenging days better.” The autonomy Crawford provides allows her to shape lessons with creativity and passion, a freedom she believes benefits both students and teachers alike. Teaching Philosophy Yvette’s philosophy is simple: teaching with compassion is the key. She believes deeply in lifelong learning, knowing that the quality of her teaching drives the quality of her students’ learning. “Getting the best out of my students demands that I get the best out of me, too,” she says.
A child runs through an obstacle course on a school lawn, next to a Crawford International graphic.

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Keith Saramago, Crawford International alum, smiles. Text:

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: KEITH Saramago

July 4, 2025
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: KEITH Saramago Crawford International Lonehill | Class of 2013 From a spirited student on the soccer field to a professional, navigating global financial markets, Keith Saramago’s journey is grounded in resilience, clarity and purpose. Keith matriculated from Crawford International Lonehill in 2013. One of his standout memories was helping his team win a soccer competition at an inter-campus event. “We were the underdogs, but we played with heart. That win taught me early on that belief and teamwork can shift outcomes,” he recalls. After school, Keith pursued a Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Financial Analysis at Stellenbosch University. There, he encountered mentors who guided him through his postgraduate studies and helped him understand how to shape his ambitions into a viable career path. “Those mentors helped me map out not only my strengths but also what to expect when entering a competitive field,” he says. Keith now works as a Treasury Dealer, focusing on foreign exchange and money market funds for various South African corporates. What keeps him engaged is the unpredictability of the work. “Financial markets respond to global trends in real time. No day is ever the same, and that constant shift is what I thrive on,” he shares. He credits Crawford for helping him build a strong foundation. “Crawford gave me the confidence to speak up and engage meaningfully with others. It helped me develop a point of view and the courage to stand by it,” he says. He also speaks to the importance of staying grounded. “Respecting others while remaining true to yourself is a lesson I continue to apply,” he adds. Outside the professional world, Keith treasures building a life with his wife, calling their marriage one of his proudest achievements. He stays in close contact with many of his former classmates and values those bonds deeply. “We still catch up often. Some of us have moved across the globe, but the friendships have remained intact.” Looking ahead, he plans to further his studies and explore new professional opportunities across the continent and abroad. His advice to current students is straightforward: “Identify what you love and pursue it with intention. Silence the noise and trust what you know is meant for you.”  Keith’s story reflects the balance between professional excellence and personal fulfilment and the courage to stay true to both.
Woman smiling in a floral top, Crawford International ad, text: Crafting Tomorrow's Leaders. Vanessa Majola, Crawford International La Lucia.

Teaching with Purpose, Passion and Precision

June 27, 2025
In the heart of Crawford International La Lucia’s Preparatory School, you will find a Mathematics classroom where curiosity is championed, and confidence is cultivated. At the centre of it all is Vanessa Majola, a dedicated teacher and Head of Mathematics who has been part of the Crawford community since 2018. With experience across schools in Germany and South Africa, Vanessa brings both global perspective and personal passion to her teaching. From the outset, her commitment to education has been clear. As a teenager, she taught Sunday School at her local church and later shadowed teachers during her Grade 9 year in Germany. The experience confirmed what she already sensed, teaching was more than a profession. It was a calling. Joy in the Journey “Some of my most rewarding moments come when a student realises that they can do Maths,” Vanessa says. “Watching them move from self-doubt to self-belief is powerful.” One such moment stays with her. A student who joined her Maths support group in Grade 4 had struggled with foundational concepts. Through steady support and the student's own determination, she eventually earned recognition for top Maths achievement in Grade 7. “It’s not just about marks,” Vanessa adds. “It’s about growth. It’s about ownership. That’s where the transformation lies.” Vanessa is quick to credit her students’ effort and resilience. “When they work together to solve complex problems or persist through a challenge, I see something special. They are not just learning Mathematics, they are learning how to learn.” A Crawford Classroom Built on Curiosity At Crawford La Lucia, Vanessa finds that students are motivated, hard-working and eager to take responsibility for their own progress. Many go beyond the curriculum, seeking out advanced topics and entering Mathematics competitions. It is an environment that celebrates both inquiry and rigour. What sets Vanessa apart is her commitment to teaching not only the how but the why. Her lessons are rich with visual and hands-on learning. She uses tools like GeoGebra to help students visualise abstract concepts, and she regularly incorporates manipulatives to support deeper understanding. Mistakes are welcomed and examined, not avoided. “They’re an essential part of the process,” she explains. “We unpack them together so students can learn from them.” Teaching Philosophy Vanessa’s teaching approach is deeply influenced by the quote from Benjamin Franklin: “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” For her, involvement is everything. She subscribes to an inductive style of teaching, providing students with examples and encouraging them to discover patterns and principles themselves. “It’s not about racing through content. There’s little value in covering a syllabus if it doesn’t actually connect with the students. I want them to think, to explore, to make meaning of what they are learning.” Thinking About the Future of Education While Vanessa embraces educational technology as a valuable asset, she sees human connection as irreplaceable. “Technology enhances what we do. It allows us to tailor learning, track progress and present content in dynamic ways. But at the heart of every great classroom is a teacher who understands and guides their students.” She believes the role of the teacher is evolving – from being the centre of knowledge to becoming a facilitator of deeper understanding. For Vanessa, this shift is essential if students are to leave school equipped not just with facts but with skills, adaptability and confidence. Inspiration and Advice  Inspired by the work of educational researcher Jo Boaler, Vanessa brings a growth mindset into her classroom every day. She reminds her students that mistakes are opportunities for brain growth, that challenges build cognitive strength, and that everyone is capable of learning Mathematics. To parents, she offers thoughtful encouragement: Focus on your child’s progress over comparison to others. Use language that nurtures resilience and curiosity. Emphasise effort and strategy over fixed ability. Remember that academic success is just one part of a child’s broader development. “Students are far more motivated when they realise that they have control over their outcomes,” she says. “That belief in possibility is what we need to foster in the classroom and at home.” In a world where education is evolving, Vanessa Majola remains rooted in what matters most, connection, curiosity and care. Her classroom is a space where students are not only learning Mathematics but discovering their capacity to think, grow and thrive.
Father and son reading a book together indoors, promoting parent-teacher partnerships.

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Meet Mashudu Bhengu: Bringing out the best in her students at Crawford International Lonehill

May 30, 2025
Meet Mashudu Bhengu: Bringing out the best in her students at Crawford International Lonehill Teaches : Zulu to Grades 1-4 Qualifications: Bachelor of Education: Early Childhood and Foundation Phase (UNISA) Hobbies and interests: Avid reader and gym enthusiast – it keeps her sane and grounded! Teaching is About Serving and Giving Back: Before choosing teaching, Mashudu Bhengu was interested in pursuing a career in nursing or social work, drawn to community service and giving back. In 2013, volunteering at an NGO in Lawley, she facilitated after-school classes for disadvantaged children. This experience sparked her passion for teaching, leading her to enrol in teaching studies at UNISA. One of Mashudu’s favourite aspects of working with children is their purity and honesty. She finds immense joy and fulfilment in teaching, seeing her efforts and commitment reciprocated with love and enthusiasm by her students. For Mashudu, no other career could bring such personal satisfaction. On Her Mentor and Teaching Influence: Mashudu vividly remembers her Grade 3 teacher, Mrs Harding, who significantly impacted her life. Mrs Harding’s patience, empathy, and unwavering support inspired Mashudu’s teaching career. Mashudu aspires to be a ‘Mrs Harding’ for her students, boosting their confidence, instilling a love of learning, and encouraging them to strive for more. On Her A-ha Moments: As a foundation phase teacher, Mashudu often wonders how much her young students absorb. But she is vindicated when she sees them apply their learning to solve problems, which gives her real thrill to see then work things out for themselves. Her A-ha moments come not just from their academic achievements, but also from witnessing her students develop as unique individuals. For Mashudu, teaching at the foundational stage is a profound journey, extending well beyond ‘subject matter’. While she may be teaching Zulu, Mashudu also knows she is nurturing young minds and hearts, instilling essential social, emotional, and life skills. On Teaching at Crawford International: Mashudu loves Crawford’s student-centred approach and the mutual respect between students and teachers. At Crawford, teachers encourage students to be self-empowered, curious, and responsible for their success. They teach the value of kindness, resilience, and curiosity, helping students navigate their emotions and interactions. The pride Mashudu feels when her dedication resonates beyond the classroom is immense. In her Zulu classes, Mashudu balances her student’s tech exposure with activities like singing, music, dancing, and rhymes, engaging all senses and learning styles. These activities provide a welcome break from technology, allowing children to enjoy spontaneity and just be children. Personal Philosophy: One of Mashudu’s favourite quotes is by Will Smith: “Following your dreams is a lonely, solitary, scary pursuit. You can't wait for somebody to think you can do it. You have to be willing to risk everything to become that seed of what you believe is in there. You have to be fearless. You have to be relentless in the pursuit of your dream.”
Actress Roxanne Van Der Westhuizen in Crawford International alumni spotlight.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ROXANNE VAN DER WESTHUIZEN

By Neo Moshoeu • May 23, 2025
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ROXANNE VAN DER WESTHUIZEN Crawford International Lonehill | Class of 2009 From the banking halls of one of South Africa’s most prestigious financial institutions to the stages and studios of New York City, Roxanne Van der Westhuizen’s story is one of courage, reinvention and the pursuit of purpose. Chasing the Calling After matriculating from Crawford International Lonehill in 2009, Roxanne was accepted into the Psychology programme at the University of Cape Town. A sudden family crisis and financial hardship brought her back to Johannesburg, where she began working to support her family. Years later, determined to finish what she started, she enrolled at Varsity College in Sandton. Balancing motherhood, full-time employment and a rigorous academic load, she earned her degree with distinction, graduating at the top of her class. Her career began at Investec Bank, where she rose through the ranks, first in client services and later in data analytics. Her success came through persistence, grit and repeated setbacks that ultimately redirected her. A moment of deep personal reflection led her to reconnect with a long-suppressed calling, storytelling through performance. In a bold leap of faith, she left her corporate life behind and relocated to New York to pursue acting. There, she studied under renowned acting coach Terry Knickerbocker, known for mentoring names such as Sam Rockwell and Daniel Craig. She was named Student of the Season at his studio. Today, Roxanne stars in stage and screen productions across the U.S., including her lead role in the upcoming film Emancipation of the Past (July 2025), and a standout performance as Regina in Not to Be Played With (available on Tubi and AppleTV). She is also developing her own series, which she plans to take to festivals and production houses. Achievements and Projects Lead role in Emancipation of the Past (2025 release) Featured in Not to Be Played With on Tubi and Apple TV Collaboration on Spicy Bob alongside Pete Simpson of Blue Man Group Student of the Season at Terry Knickerbocker Studio Creator and writer of a new series currently in development  Roxanne reflects on her journey and earning one of her biggest roles yet, “this is the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to do, but also the most enriching. The vulnerability required in acting is daunting, but it connects me to myself and others in ways I never imagined. Despite the false starts and failures, I am exactly where I am meant to be.”
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