Press statement by Eduplex School
Pretoria’s Eduplex School has been recognised as one of only 27 organisations worldwide and one of just two schools in South Africa to be selected as a beneficiary of the prestigious FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.
The Fund recognises organisations that create meaningful opportunities for children through education and sport, and highlights Eduplex’s internationally respected approach to inclusive education.
The funding will support bursaries for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds and help ensure that more children have access to the opportunities offered at Eduplex.
Founded by Nico van der Merwe, Eduplex has spent more than 30 years challenging traditional thinking about education and demonstrating how children of different abilities can learn, grow and succeed together. What began as a bold vision has evolved into a model that is now recognised and studied internationally.
Today, Eduplex is home to more than 820 learners from Grade 0000 to Grade 12. What makes the school unique is its inclusive approach, in which 3-4 deaf children are included in every class and learn alongside their hearing peers without sign language.
Over the years, Eduplex has become internationally recognised for this innovative model and has welcomed educators, therapists and healthcare professionals from more than 50 countries who have come to be trained in the Eduplex model of inclusion.
The school’s integrated campus includes world-class pre-primary, primary and high school facilities, an audiology and parent guidance centre and extensive sports facilities. Its focus is on creating an environment where every learner can reach their full potential academically, socially and personally.
Eduplex’s success lies in proving that inclusion benefits everyone. By creating innovative classrooms where children learn, play and grow together, the school helps prepare young people for life in a diverse and connected world.
The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund’s recognition places Eduplex among a select group of organisations worldwide that are making a measurable difference in the lives of children and communities. For Eduplex, the award is a celebration of what has been achieved over three decades and an encouragement to continue expanding opportunities for future generations of South African learners.
Reflecting on the recognition, founder Nico van der Merwe said: “This award belongs to every learner, parent, teacher and supporter who has believed in the power of inclusion. We are honoured by this international recognition and encouraged that our work in South Africa is helping to inspire educational thinking around the world.” For more information about Eduplex, visit www.eduplex.co.za
Media Enquiries: Liesel Basson, Tel: (012) 941 2000 / 083 307 3241 Email: liesel.basson@eduplex.co.za
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Date published: 22/06/2026
Feature image: Provided by Eduplex School
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