Batandwa Mgutsi, 16, a Grade 10 learner at Robinvale High School invented the LearnSmart@Robinvale application during the June holidays.
And he is hoping it could be rolled out to other schools soon.
Batandwa says he invented the app after noticing the lack of textbooks at his school.
The free app allows learners at the school easy access to learning material.
“Most children in my class did not have textbooks and many could not do their work. I sat and thought I could help them as I love computers, software and programming,” says the teen.
“During the June holidays I sat up to four hours a day to complete the app which took two three weeks to make. I do however make time for my school work as well. I spend about two hours on my computer and the rest to study.”
The application can be used for subjects like Mathematics, Physical Science, Life Sciences, Technology, Business Studies and Natural Sciences and is applicable for Grade 8 to 12 learners.
Learners need a smartphone, tablet or laptop to use the app.
“I feel happy and excited for the change this could be for my fellow learners and classmates. I hope to have this app at others schools too to help others,” Batandwa says.
Proud principal Vaughan Murray says at the moment only a few pupils are able to use the app because the school don’t have access to WiFi.
“Our school has a problem with textbooks, budget and negligence [textbooks are damaged or lost]. When Batandwa came to me asking if it’s fine if he could advertise an application he created, I was stunned, and excited to think this 16-year-old sat and thought about how he could make life easier for others,” says the palie.
“This was not his problem but he used his skill to make a change, it just describes the person he is. He is an A-grade student and is currently in first place in his grade.
“A child like him makes it a pleasure to be an educator.
“Unfortunately we cannot roll out the application as yet as our school WiFi is not ready yet and many do not have internet at home.”