Patience has finally paid off for many township schools across South Africa — and Net Nine Nine has delivered the breakthrough.
The Johannesburg-based Internet Service Provider (ISP) has now successfully connected 100 schools with unlimited free high-speed fibre internet, hitting a major milestone in its ambitious under-privileged school connectivity project.
This achievement marks a turning point in the education sector, as Net99’s initiative goes far beyond simple internet access.
It’s about reshaping how learning happens in the modern era – giving both learners and teachers the tools to thrive in a digital world.
TRANSFORMING EDUCATION SCHOOLS!
Compared to just 21 connected schools in mid-2024, the growth to 100 within a year represents a phenomenal spike – an incredible feat for a five-year-old company.
The free 1 Gig fibre connections are already making a difference in the under-resourced schools, where textbooks are scarce and funding is limited, access to reliable internet is proving transformative.
Many of these schools are seeing a noticeable improvement in pass rates and digital literacy, thanks to this new gateway to online learning.
To date, Net99 has connected schools across Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, North West, and the Free State, and is now pushing into the Eastern Cape and Limpopo. The demand is growing rapidly, with school principals around the country reaching out to be part of the programme.
BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE!
Net99 is bridging that gap – and leading South Africa into a more digitally connected future, similar to Rwanda’s education model powered by cutting-edge fibre technology.
Earlier forecasts suggested Net99 would reach the 100-school mark by mid-2026. But thanks to efficient planning and strong partnerships, that goal has been reached a full year ahead of schedule.
And the momentum isn’t slowing down.
In June 2025, the company unveiled a fully equipped computer lab at Wood and Raw Secondary School in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal – a school that previously had smartboards but no internet connection.
There was excitement when the ribbon was cut to officially open the lab with 30 modern computers neatly stored on desks, plus two laptops for the tech teachers at the school.
Net Nine Nine’s 100-school achievement isn’t just a milestone — it’s a movement that’s reshaping the future of learning in South Africa.
