8 May 2025, Johannesburg, South Africa: Netstar, a subsidiary of Altron, with its deep commitment to make a meaningful social impact, continues to invest in initiatives that empower communities through technology. The technology company has recently donated R500 000 to support the efforts of Redtank ICT Academy NPC, a non-profit organisation, who is dedicated to bridging the digital divide that exists in previously disadvantaged communities, by offering practical ICT skills training.
In a world rapidly transformed by digitalisation, digital literacy is not a luxury, it is a necessity. Yet, for many South Africans, especially in rural and marginalised communities, access to digital skills remains out of reach. Redtank ICT Academy was founded to change that, and their mission aligns closely with Netstar’s belief that technology should be inclusive, empowering, and accessible to all.
Empowerment through partnership
Redtank ICT Academy is doing remarkable work to upskill youth, women, and persons living with disabilities, groups that have historically been excluded from the tech sector. Their hands-on training helps individuals acquire the digital knowledge needed to secure employment, contribute to economic growth and participate meaningfully in a digital society.
“Netstar believes in activating innovation to help uplift communities,” says Jeandre Koen, Managing Director, Netstar South Africa. “This donation to Redtank reflects our commitment to building a future where every South African has the tools and skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.”
Bridging the skills gap
Redtank was established in response to South Africa’s delayed engagement with the 4IR, which left many behind amid the rapid technological shifts across industries. Today, the academy serves as a beacon of opportunity, offering ICT focused training that prepares learners for real-world challenges.
Their work directly supports Netstar’s CSI strategy to tackle unemployment, promote education, and enable digital transformation at grassroots level. With industries increasingly reliant on technology, Redtank’s programmes ensure that communities are not only connected, but competitive.
Investing in a more inclusive tomorrow
“We are proud to play a role in supporting South Africa’s digital future and in partnering with organisations that are building pathways to inclusion, says Sydney Mokhethi, CEO of Red Tank Academy. “Netstar is one such organisation – passionate, impactful and driven by purpose.”
The 500k donation, from Netstar will go towards expanding Redtank’s skills development initiatives, helping to create more technology access points for those in need and to drive long-term, sustainable impact.
About Netstar
Netstar is a trusted brand and pioneered the vehicle-tracking and stolen-vehicle recovery industry in South Africa in 1994. We provide industry-leading stolen-vehicle recovery services, advanced vehicle and fleet tracking, great fleet management solutions for all-sized business and commercial fleets, commanding insurance telematics solutions and best-in-class fleet intelligence services; in fact, no IoT solution is out of our reach.