Drakensberg Education Model Offers Visionary Path for Rural South Africa

Located in the majestic mountains of KwaZulu-Natal, a quiet but powerful education revolution is taking root. The Royal Drakensberg Education Trust (RDET), under the leadership of Thobani Ndlovu, is spearheading a community-driven model that is transforming rural education and setting the stage for scalable, long-term impact across South Africa.

At the heart of RDET’s approach is a belief that education must extend beyond the classroom and be deeply rooted in the communities it serves. “If we want to see children grow, we need to engage with their communities,” says Ndlovu. “It’s not just about what happens in the classroom, it’s about building the entire support system around the child.” This philosophy has shaped a holistic model that focuses on teacher development, early childhood care, literacy, nutrition, and mentorship.

RDET places strong emphasis on empowering educators—offering training, mentorship, and resources that elevate teachers into leaders and role models within their communities. One such success story is a woman who started as a cook in a local daycare and, through the Trust’s support, is now completing her education degree and leading early childhood initiatives.

“Her story shows what’s possible when people are given the tools and encouragement to grow,” says Ndlovu.

The Trust’s impact is visible across the Drakensberg region: from porridge meals provided daily at local daycare centres, to books and literacy programmes that spark a love of reading in young children. Through these initiatives, RDET nurtures not only academic success but also confidence, creativity, and hope. Graduates from the programme are now entering university, performing in the arts, and pursuing careers that once felt out of reach.

With growing interest in its success, RDET is now focused on creating a replicable, scalable model for rural education that can uplift other communities across South Africa.

“Our goal is not just to succeed here,” says Ndlovu, “but to create a blueprint for rural development rooted in education, compassion, and community.”

As the Royal Drakensberg Education Trust continues to expand its impact, support from the broader public is vital. Whether through book donations, mentorship, or funding, every contribution helps build a sustainable, empowering future for rural children. In Ndlovu’s words: “Come and see the joy, the growth, the hope. That’s what we’re building—one child, one teacher, one community at a time.”