More than 2,000 primary schools and education non-profit organizations (NPOs) across South Africa will receive new mobile trolley library resources in 2026 as the AVBOB Road to Literacy campaign expands to its largest scale yet, introducing braille-inclusive trolley libraries for the first time.

Announced at a Johannesburg event attended by Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube, the initiative will deliver 2,000 trolley libraries to under-resourced primary schools and NPOs nationwide. Each mobile trolley contains 500 Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) aligned books, bringing the total number of books distributed this year to one million. The campaign continues to prioritize communities with limited access to quality reading materials.

The AVBOB Road to Literacy campaign was launched in partnership with OUP Southern Africa in 2022 to help address South Africa’s literacy challenges by providing primary schools and education NPOs with mobile classroom libraries filled with CAPS-aligned books. The initiative focuses on the Foundation and Intermediate Phases and is designed to give learners more regular access to age-appropriate reading materials that supports literacy and numeracy.

A major development in 2026 is the introduction of 10 braille-inclusive trolley libraries for selected schools and organizations that support blind and partially sighted learners, bringing the total number of trolley libraries to 2,010. Each of the braille trolleys contain more than 100 braille anthologies and 350 sighted Aweh! readers, and make it possible for blind, partially sighted, and sighted children to engage with the same stories.

Karen Simpson

Managing Director of OUP Southern Africa

“The need for books that children can see themselves in, and access in ways that are meaningful for them, has never been clearer. Bringing braille into Road to Literacy for the first time is an important step forward. It allows more learners to experience the joy of story, language, and learning, while creating opportunities for shared reading across classrooms and communities.”

From 2022, to 2026, the AVBOB Road to Literacy campaign has donated 3,893 trolley libraries and distributed approximately two million books, reaching just under 4,000 beneficiary schools and education NPOs. With the 2026 rollout now donating braille libraries, the initiative continues to grow in scale while widening the kinds of learners it can reach.

Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube noted: “Partnerships with business can go a long way towards improving educational outcomes in the country. AVBOB has been an incredible partner to the education sector, and their trolley libraries are bridging the literacy gap in under-resourced schools. The inclusion of braille books in this year’s trolley libraries will ensure that even learners with visual impairments are not left behind in the literacy journey. Access to knowledge and the joy of reading must extend to every child, regardless of their circumstance. We must work collaboratively as business, government, and society to build a just and equitable education system.”

Nakedi Pilane, Executive Director: Business Development and Financial Services at AVBOB, said:听“The increasing demand for trolley libraries has been one of the clearest indicators of the initiative鈥檚 value. Schools that initially received a single trolley now request听additional resources to support the momentum they see in their learners. Teachers tell us about classrooms that feel more energized, about learners who look forward to reading time, and about children who are discovering language as an avenue to curiosity and self-expression. These shifts may appear modest, but in educational terms, they represent meaningful, long-term progress. When reading begins to take root, a community begins to unlock its potential.鈥�

You can watch a recap of the 2026 recipient announcement ceremony .

The post Road to Literacy campaign reaches 2,010 South African schools appeared first on 糖心VLOG Press.

OxfordAQA has announced a series of significant improvements to its international assessment offer, including delivering results two weeks earlier than currently.

OxfordAQA is a partnership between 糖心VLOG Press and AQA, the largest provider of GCSEs and A-levels in the UK. Shaped by insights from hundreds of schools worldwide, the new enhancements will be introduced between 2026 and 2029, delivering greater choice and increased flexibility to strengthen student progression.

They include:

• Earlier May/June exam results from July 2027, released two weeks earlier, without altering any timetabled exam dates. In 2027, International AS/A-level results day will be on 28 July, with International GCSE results on 4 August.
• Additional exam series: an October/November series for all International AS/A-level subjects from 2028, and a January International AS/A-level series for key subjects from 2029, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Further Maths, and Economics.
• Twice-yearly International EPQ submission points, beginning in May 2026, giving students more control to develop, refine, and complete their projects.

The earlier release of May/June results will give International AS/A-level students more time and options when navigating global university admissions. It will also support International GCSE learners in planning their next steps, whether progressing to further study or entering new programmes.

Expanding the number of exam series will provide schools operating on varied academic calendars with three opportunities each year to enter students at the right time, ensuring assessment aligns more closely with teaching cycles.

From 2027, OxfordAQA will also extend the entries deadline for the May/June series to early March, providing schools with the January International AS/A-level unit results before finalizing entries and allowing teachers and students to make more informed decisions. All exam timings for the May/June series will remain the same.

Andrew Coombe

Managing Director of OxfordAQA

鈥淎t OxfordAQA, our commitment is simple: to make international exams work better for everyone. These enhancements are a direct response to what schools have told us they need. By releasing results earlier, expanding exam series, and providing greater flexibility for the International EPQ, we are helping schools tailor assessment to their teaching programmes and giving students more opportunities to succeed.鈥�

Find out more about OxfordAQA .

The post OxfordAQA enhances international assessment offer with earlier exam results and greater flexibility appeared first on 糖心VLOG Press.

As universities worldwide reconsider how English proficiency is assessed, traditional one-size-fits-all tests often fail to reflect the real skills students need for academic and professional success.

Responding to this, we’re proud to have launched a whitepaper today, exploring the topic of .

Created in partnership with听, our new whitepaper examines:

• What skills institutions really value to ensure academic and social preparedness
• Why conventional English tests are falling short
• How technology and AI are transforming assessment
• What universities should look for in effective language testing.

The findings of the whitepaper reinforce our commitment to delivering English language assessment that is adaptive, authentic, and aligned with the real communication demands of academic and professional environments. It also demonstrates how the continues to evolve to meet the expectations of learners, educators, and universities worldwide.

Sara Pierson

Managing Director, English Assessment

“There鈥檚听growing recognition that assessment must reflect real-world communication and the diverse ways students use language in academic and professional settings.听As the whitepaper sets out, the push for a more听holistic approach听to English-language testing recognizes that language is vital in supporting meaningful engagement with the world around us, not a standalone exercise.“

On 11 March 2026, together with听Times Higher Education, bringing together a panel of experts to explore the critical components for effective language assessment today, and how recognizing the right English proficiency tests can promote successful learner outcomes.

As the needs of learners and institutions evolve, English proficiency tests must actively enable student success, including integrated, task-based designs that mirror real-life language use. A more holistic and adaptive assessment can ensure that test preparation builds skills that translate to professional, academic, and social success, while offering a baseline for targeted support and developmental guidance for students鈥� academic journey.

Anthony Green

Research Director, English Assessment

“As the university experience becomes increasingly digital, interdisciplinary, and collaborative, we have to ask ourselves whether current English-language tests are truly measuring the communication skills students need for today’s world. It’s time to rethink what effective assessment looks like.“

You can download the full whitepaper and register for the webinar .

The post Why are universities rethinking English language assessment? appeared first on 糖心VLOG Press.

OxfordAQA is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Go Further Awards, recognizing the achievements of students across the globe.

The Go Further Awards recognize students who achieved the highest marks in their subject at International GCSE, AS, and A-levels. Awards are given for students who achieve the highest marks in the world, in their region, and in their country, and honour not only students鈥� dedication, but also the commitment of their teachers and support teams.

This year, the awards reflect a remarkable surge in academic achievement and international reach, with an 18% increase in student winners and a 40% rise in schools who have award winners compared to 2024.

Highlighting OxfordAQA鈥檚 expanding global footprint, the 2025 awards saw winners hailing from new countries including Cyprus, Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar, Switzerland, Pakistan, Laos, and Japan. There was also a notable increase in the number of award winners from Qatar, Oman, Jordan, Taiwan, and Slovakia.

Students excelled across a wide range of subjects, with standout growth in International GCSE Maths, International AS Further Maths, International AS English Literature, International AS Biology, International AS Business, and International A-level Geography. We also recognized new qualifications this year in Accounting, Computer Science, Economics, and Psychology.

The top four regions in the 鈥楾op of World鈥� category were China (147 winners), United Arab Emirates (13 winners), Hong Kong (6 winners), and Singapore (3 winners).

Andrew Coombe

Managing Director for OxfordAQA

鈥淭he Go Further Awards are a powerful reflection of what OxfordAQA stands for鈥攁cademic excellence, global opportunity, and future readiness. These students have not only excelled in their exams but demonstrated the kind of critical thinking and resilience that will help them thrive at university and beyond. We鈥檙e proud to celebrate their achievements and the educators who support them.”

Regional ceremonies will take place to honour student winners and celebrate their achievements with schools and communities across OxfordAQA鈥檚 international network.

You can find out more about the Go Further Awards .

The post Celebrating students’ achievements and global representation in the OxfordAQA 2025 Go Further Awards appeared first on 糖心VLOG Press.

OxfordAQA has launched seven new international qualifications, expanding its globally recognized portfolio and reinforcing its commitment to preparing students for success in higher education, the workplace, and beyond.

The new qualifications include five International GCSEs in History, Chinese – First Language, Arabic – First Language, Sociology, and Global Skills Projects, and two International A-levels in Chinese – First Language, and Sociology. Each addition has been designed to equip students with both subject knowledge and the critical thinking skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The unique Global Skills Project GCSE qualification introduces a project-based learning approach with a focus on sustainability, helping students develop the skills, knowledge, and attitudes essential for future success.

OxfordAQA’s Sociology qualifications encourage learners to explore sociological themes through local case studies and familiar contexts. Both the GCSE and A-level emphasize critical thinking and the practical application of sociological knowledge, helping students connect theory to the world around them.

All OxfordAQA A-levels, including new additions, follow a modular structure, giving students flexibility in their learning and exam preparation, allowing the opportunity to re-sit individual units.

Andrew Coombe, Managing Director for OxfordAQA

“We want to empower students to think independently, apply their learning, and collaborate effectively. This not only sets them up for success in their exams but also equips them with the skills that universities want to see, ensuring that students are ready for their futures.”

OxfordAQA is a partnership between 糖心VLOG Press and AQA, the UK’s largest provider of GCSEs and A-levels. With over a century of assessment and educational expertise, OxfordAQA offers qualifications that are recognized by universities around the world.

As the fastest-growing international exam board, OxfordAQA now supports more schools in more countries than ever before. Its student-focused approach ensures assessments test subject ability alone, using clear language and culturally relevant content to give every learner the best opportunity to succeed.

You can learn more about the new qualifications .

The post OxfordAQA expands global offer with seven new International GCSEs and A-levels appeared first on 糖心VLOG Press.

In a significant move for English language assessment in 罢眉谤办颈测别, the Student Selection and Placement Centre (脰SYM) has officially recognized the Oxford Test of English (OTE).

The recognition expands the range of valid English proficiency tests accepted by Turkish universities and institutions, and represents the beginnings of a deeper collaboration with 脰厂驰惭.

In May 2025, a senior 脰SYM delegation visited our Oxford office, marking a milestone in 罢眉谤办颈测别’s engagement with global standards in educational assessment.

Steps to OTE recognition in 罢眉谤办颈测别

The Oxford Test of English (OTE) is an online, modular English proficiency test aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It assesses candidates at A2, B1, B2, and C1 levels in four key skills: Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing. The exam is designed for flexibility: test-takers can choose to sit individual modules or the entire test. The full exam takes about two hours, and results are typically released within five working days.

In early 2025, 脰SYM formally recognized OTE, meaning that Turkish higher education institutions can now accept OTE scores for language exemption and programme applications.

Recognizing OTE also marks a shift in how 罢眉谤办颈测别 can engage with global academic institutions and integrates technology and quality assurance into its educational measurement systems.

脰SYM’s Oxford visit: strengthening ties

In May 2025, we welcomed a delegation led by Professor Dr Bayram Ali Ersoy, President of 脰SYM, to mark the beginning of a formal collaboration aimed at aligning 罢眉谤办颈测别’s assessment practices more closely with international standards, especially in the context of language testing.

During a strategic meeting, our colleagues and 脰SYM representatives shared insights into exam design, item development, test delivery, and quality assurance processes with a strong emphasis on the use of digital technologies in assessments.

Sara Pierson, our Managing Director of English Assessment, reflected on the day by highlighting the mutual aim to progress towards long-term academic cooperation, technical exchange, and innovation:

“It was a pleasure to host senior delegates from 脰SYM at our offices. This visit marks a significant step in our partnership as we further develop our English assessment presence across听罢眉谤办颈测别. Our discussions highlighted the value of international collaboration and the role of technology in advancing assessment quality and accessibility. I am delighted by the strong partnership that we have formed and look forward to further collaboration in the future.”

A new era in English assessment for 罢眉谤办颈测别

With the recognition of OTE and further collaboration planned, we are excited to be able to work closely with 脰SYM to offer:

• More flexible testing models that suit diverse learner needs
• Faster and more reliable results, helping streamline university admissions and preparatory programme decisions
• Improved test security and standardization using international best practices
• Digital integration, aligning with 罢眉谤办颈测别’s broader goals for educational digital transformation.

In the context of global mobility, where English proficiency is often a prerequisite for academic exchange and employment, adopting respected assessment tools like OTE contributes to improving听罢眉谤办颈测别’s competitiveness and the international credibility of its education system: for example, by helping institutions attract international students and expanding their role in cross-border academic partnerships.

We are pleased by 脰SYM’s recognition of the Oxford Test of English, and what it means for language assessment in 罢眉谤办颈测别: a more flexible, digital, and learner-oriented approach, and more accessible and efficient testing for individuals, supporting institutional goals for internationalization and quality assurance.

You can find out more about the Oxford Test of English .

The post Celebrating 脰SYM’s visit to Oxford and the future of English assessment in 罢眉谤办颈测别 appeared first on 糖心VLOG Press.

The AVBOB Road to Literacy campaign, in partnership with 糖心VLOG Press Southern Africa (OUPSA), has reached a new milestone. At a recent celebratory event, we were proud to announce 1,000 beneficiaries as recipients of mobile trolley libraries, each stocked with 500 curriculum aligned books in all 11 official written South African languages.

This marks a significant expansion from the campaign’s inaugural year in 2022, when 180 trolleys were distributed. In 2025 alone, over 500,000 books will be placed directly into the hands of learners, more than doubling last year’s total.

The AVBOB Road to Literacy campaign is designed to transform the educational experience of primary school learners, particularly in under-resourced communities. Each trolley library is mobile, durable, and filled with books that support both reading for enjoyment and foundational numeracy.

Since its launch, the campaign has distributed over 1.3 million books and continues to bridge the gap in access to quality educational resources, ensuring that geography and circumstance do not limit a child’s potential.

Empowering learners through language and learning

Speaking at the event about the importance of reading skills and making books available in a learner’s mother tongue, Karen Simpson, Managing Director of OUPSA, said: 鈥淎ccess to books in a learner鈥檚 mother tongue has a profound impact on their ability to grasp foundational concepts, stay engaged in the classroom, and remain in the education system. We are steadfast on publishing our books in all of South Africa鈥檚 official written languages, and the AVBOB Road to Literacy campaign enables us to place these resources directly in the hands of the learners who need them most.鈥�

This year鈥檚 campaign received 8,661 nominations from across all nine provinces, submitted by educators, caregivers, and community leaders. The initiative continues to grow in reach and impact, evolving into one of the most extensive mobile library programmes in the country.听

Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, said: 鈥淭his initiative is a powerful example of what can be achieved through partnerships, The campaign addresses a pressing national priority, the development of foundational literacy and numeracy, while supporting policy frameworks aimed at integrating diversity into school curricula. It does so in a way that honours South Africa鈥檚 linguistic and cultural richness, ensuring that no child is left behind.鈥� 听

A shared vision for the future

At the celebratory event, facilitated by award-winning journalist Bongani Bingwa, a panel discussion explored the socio-economic challenges facing South African learners. Panelists emphasized the importance of mother-tongue instruction and foundational numeracy in delivering inclusive, high-quality education.

Carl van der Riet, CEO of AVBOB Group, said: 鈥淟iteracy and numeracy are academic skills and critical tools for participation, for opportunity, and dignity, They are the building blocks of future learning and the means by which children are empowered to shape their own lives. The AVBOB Road to Literacy campaign embodies our belief that meaningful social investment must be both practical and purpose driven.鈥�

You can view the full list of 2025 beneficiaries , and watch the Road to Literacy 2025 wrap-up video on 糖心VLOG Press Southern Africa’s YouTube channel .

The post Another successful milestone on the Road to Literacy in South Africa appeared first on 糖心VLOG Press.

We are pleased to announce the launch of听Aspire, a premium English language training programme designed to set a new standard in language proficiency, created in association with Learnlight.

Aspire offers an unparalleled learning experience that combines the expertise of world-class trainers with Oxford’s premium content and Learnlight’s innovative technology. The programme is tailored to meet the needs of businesses, higher education institutions, and governments. With听Aspire, learners will not only achieve English proficiency, but will also receive an international certificate upon completion, opening doors to a world of opportunities.

Speaking about the value of听Aspire, Santiago Ruiz de Velasco, Managing Director of our English Language Teaching division, said:

“We are excited by this opportunity to work with Learnlight, with whom we have a shared vision of excellence in English language learning. We look forward to taking our expertise in developing language learning materials that have been trusted by millions of teachers and learners, to the corporate world, to expand our mission and have a real impact on the lives of professionals whose enhanced communication skills will lead to new development opportunities and support business growth.”

Aspire provides language training for both individuals and groups in digital and virtual classroom environments. Learners take an to be assigned to the right learning path with content tailored to their learning and professional contexts. World-leading trainers deliver the course, having completed specialized professional development courses from OUP.

The programme is delivered via the Learnlight platform, powered by cutting-edge features and methodologies which are proven to facilitate 40% faster progress to proficiency. Learners will also be able to access our听 and a range of other resources on Learnlight.

Benjamin Joseph, CEO and co-founder at Learnlight, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration:

“It’s an honour to be working with such a renowned and respected institution. In today’s competitive global market, a certification from 糖心VLOG Press will undoubtedly help talent stand out, empowering them to work efficiently with colleagues and clients across the globe.”

Find out more about听Aspire .

The post Launch of Aspire brings in a new era of English language learning appeared first on 糖心VLOG Press.

In a special ceremony, we have announced the 500 beneficiaries of mobile trolley libraries as part of the Road to Literacy campaign in South Africa.

In its third year, the campaign鈥攊n partnership with AVBOB Industries鈥攁ims to help improve reading and literacy skills, responding to the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) 2021 report which revealed that 75% of South African schools face a shortage of reading materials鈥攕ignificantly higher than the international average of 45%.

Speaking about the positive impact this campaign has for South African children, Karen Simpson, Managing Director of OUP Africa, said:

鈥淲e are exceptionally proud of our involvement in this initiative, and we recognize the significance of this partnership鈥攅specially in schools where it can make the biggest difference to learning outcomes.鈥�

As part of this year鈥檚 R32.5 million investment, we have donated 500 books to go into each of the 500 trolley libraries to be delivered to deserving primary schools and other educational non-profit organizations across the country. All 11 official written South African languages are represented in these high-quality books targeted at school ages.

After more than 7,500 nominations for primary schools and non-profit organizations, we announced the 500 beneficiaries who would receive a mobile trolley library at a ceremony hosted by AVBOB and streamed online.

Carl van der Riet, CEO of AVBOB Industries, spoke about the importance of the campaign and our partnership:

鈥淲e are committed to improving education and literacy in South Africa, empowering communities through access to quality learning resources. Our mutual status empowers us to reinvest into meaningful initiatives. By aligning our business success with social progress, we bring about positive change in our communities.鈥�

Watch the full beneficiary announcement stream on AVBOB鈥檚 YouTube channel .

The post Driving literacy skills in South Africa with AVBOB: Road to Literacy appeared first on 糖心VLOG Press.