schooling
Once confined to bedrooms and weekend LAN parties, gaming has officially levelled up – right into the classroom. Across South African schools, esports is making serious waves not just as an extracurricular activity, but as a fully-fledged educational tool.
“ Esports offer many of the same educational benefits as traditional sports, like communication, discipline and teamwork. But they also teach digital literacy, decision-making under pressure and emotional intelligence,” says Magdeleen de Kock, project manager at Curro Esports.
Dumi Manganye, academic advisor at ADvTECH Schools agrees.“ Esports supports 21st-century learning goals – systems thinking, leadership and digital citizenship. Plus, it gives those quieter students a space to connect, compete, and thrive.”
And, starting an esports programme in schools isn’ t as complex, or expensive, as you might think.
Both Manganye and De Kock emphasise three key ingredients:
• dedicated staff or coaches;
• safe, age-appropriate gaming platforms; and
• support from leadership to treat esports as educational, not just recreational.
Think esports only leads to pro-gaming stardom and flashy tournaments? Think again.
“ This is a gateway to countless careers,” says De Kock.“ Learners explore shoutcasting, game development, event management, broadcasting, even team management and marketing.”
Manganye adds data analysis, content creation, cybersecurity and IT support to the list.“ The skills gained( digital know-how, discipline, collaboration) transfer beautifully to STEM, media, business and education careers,” he says. And, as digital industries continue to
Esports is transforming the educational landscape in Mzansi. Spoiler alert: it’ s more than just fun and games. grow, students with esports experience are already ahead of the curve.
For the most part, many parents are unsure of how best to support a child whose idea of“ practice” involves a gaming headset and glowing screen.
“ Engagement is key,” says De Kock.“ When parents understand the games their kids play, they can offer guidance. It’ s not about micro-managing, it’ s about setting boundaries, encouraging reflection and seeing the value beyond the screen.”
Manganye echoes the sentiment:“ It’ s about structure. Support school-based programmes where the environment is supervised and skills-focused. Help kids balance screen time with physical activity and academics.” The message? Esports isn’ t the enemy – it’ s an opportunity. �
“ Many South African schools are starting with after-school clubs or internal tournaments,” De Kock explains.“ At Curro, we’ ve integrated structured programmes across age groups using our existing ICT infrastructure.”
Manganye highlights the importance of a phased approach.“ Schools like Crawford International and Trinityhouse are introducing esports through digital clubs or enrichment programmes. With clear planning, the right support and teacher training, it’ s very doable.”
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