As part of an enabling partnership between PPC subsidiary Ulula Ash and Eskom, two high-tech mobile science labs have been donated to Sibongamandla Secondary and Kriel High Schools in Mpumalanga.
Mobile labs are the ideal alternative for schools that do not have a laboratory of their own, as they incorporate both technology and the science equipment needed to conduct the experiments covered in the school syllabus.
This handover forms part of a greater countrywide initiative by PPC, which aims to impact over 8500 learners and open up the career paths of South Africa’s next generation of engineers, scientists and technicians.
The laboratories will be used to teach science to Grade 9, 10 and 11 learners, enabling practical and interactive demonstrations, as well as appropriate exam revision.
Mark Hovy, Director: Ulula Ash, South Africa, reiterated that the laboratories were essentially catalysts greater and more far-reaching impact given the support services that they would unlock at both schools. “As part of the initiative, our implementation partner Brainwave will offer workshops and psychometric analysis to assist learners with their subject selection and provide them with career guidance. Skills assessments will also be done with learners going forward to support their career choices.” He added that future learnership opportunities with both Ulula Ash and Eskom will additionally be explored, creating a potential career pipeline.
“For education to create a life and future of possibility for our children, corporates and government need to work together to provide the tools they need to realise their dreams. It is our hope that today’s donation will unlock new career options for many of these learners, and impact their lives well into the future,” says Victor Tshamano from Eskom Kriel Power Station Management.
