With four distinctions under his belt and the first in his family to matriculate and make it to university, Viwe Noyo, an alumnus of Molly Blackburn Senior Secondary, has big plans for his future.

Securing a coveted place to study a BSc in physical science and mathematics at Nelson Mandela University in 2024, Viwe attributes much of his success to the Engen Maths and Science School (EMSS) he attended at the Uitenhage Centre, emphasising the programme’s value in providing him with additional educational resources and study materials.

"I attended classes every Saturday and found it to be fantastic for maths and science revision. The teachers covered topics we did not study at school, and it helped me reach my full potential," comments Viwe.

The Engen Maths and Science Schools have been running for over 35 years and help nurture talented South Africans like Viwe by providing free supplementary education to over 1,500 learners annually at 10 centres across South Africa.

These centres are in Cape Town (classes are held at Cape Peninsula University of Technology and Manzomthombo High), the Eastern Cape (in East London, Cala, and Gqeberha), Johannesburg (Zakarriya Park), and KwaZulu-Natal (at Fairvale High School, Ganges High School, Hillview High School, and Umlazi Commercial High School).

Offering advice to the matrics of 2024, Viwe encourages them to be proactive and study ahead.

“It’s going to be a tough year, but that does not mean it’s impossible.”

Viwe acknowledges his parents' love during his academic journey, who, despite financial constraints, showed him their unwavering support.

“My mother really stood behind me; she motivates me to keep going and study no matter how difficult it is.”

Reflecting on challenges during the matric year, Viwe says the final exams were particularly stressful due to a heavy workload.

Engen's CSI Manager, Olwethu Mdabula, emphasises EMSS’s focus on gateway subjects—mathematics, English, and science — to help address the country's skills shortage and contribute to economic growth.

Mdabula explains that EMSS aims to unlock the potential of talented young learners, providing them with the resources and guidance needed to achieve academic excellence and pursue tertiary education.

Recent Department of Basic Education data indicates improvements in pass rates for mathematics and physical science. However, the limited number of learners achieving the essential 60% minimum mark in maths and science for university entrance to engineering, commerce and science degrees underscores the vital role played by EMSS in supporting young talent, especially in STEM subjects.

“EMSS is dedicated to transforming the lives of young learners, who often face severe socio-economic challenges, by bridging educational gaps, and empowering them to reach their full potential,” comments Mdabula.

As a company, Engen champions the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 – Quality Education, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

“Engen is keenly aware that access to quality education and gender equality is everybody’s business, and that it owes it to its employees, customers, and broader society to make every effort to drive positive change,” adds Mdabula.

“It is Engen’s ultimate reward to help set talented people up to pursue stimulating careers that won’t only benefit them personally, but also their families and the broader economy of South Africa.”

Engen is incredibly proud of all EMSS learners who completed matric in 2023.

Engen is hosting a series of awards ceremonies in February at EMSS centres across South Africa where the programme’s Grade 10-12 learners will be honoured, and the top achievers named.

Viwe’s story is a testament to the impact of EMSS in shaping young minds and contributing to South Africa's growth.

Looking ahead, Viwe aspires to success not only for personal fulfilment but also to uplift his family.

"I want to be the first graduate in my family so that I can make my family proud," concludes Viwe.

Engen's dedication to creating a diverse and vibrant workforce aligns with its goal of setting talented individuals on paths that benefit not only them but also their families and the broader economy.