Hailing from KwaZulu-Natal and an attendee of the Engen Maths and Science School at Mangosuthu University of Technology, Sasasa Dlamini completed matric with an 89% average and distinctions in all his subjects. A learner at Westville Boys High School, Sasasa is bound for Harvard University in the United States to study economics or politics.
Sasasa, who first heard about EMSS at a career expo, describes his journey to get to and from his EMSS studies as “long and exacting, but world changing.” Catching a number of taxis just to make the classes was however worth the effort.
“The approach of the Engen Maths and Science Schools and their teachers were highly motivating,” he stresses. “Knowing that someone believes in you is a great feeling.”
Through sheer hard work and the supplementary classes offered by the EMSS, Sasasa eventually achieved distinctions in maths and science, and a place to study at Harvard.
“This is an opportunity to change my world. My EMSS teachers always taught me that I could do more. And since both economics and politics are premised on changing the world, perhaps I can repay their faith in me by creating the means to solving challenges and employing thousands of people. Choosing which subject to study will be tough, but I’m really excited to get this opportunity.”
Mntu Nduvane, Engen’s manager of Corporate Social Investment says the company is extremely proud of the learners who participate in the EMSS programme. “Now go and make a success of your careers and make a difference,” urges Nduvane.
By continuing to grow the minds and talents of the future, the EMSS initiative is changing our world, helping people to explore new horizons and gain new experiences: proof once again that as a company, Engen is with you on your journey. EMSS is a national initiative that addresses key skills shortages in the engineering and technical fields by providing after hours Maths and Science education to learners who show an advanced aptitude in the subjects.
EMSS exposes learners from grades 10 to 12 to high-quality teachers, tuition and educational materials. Currently, Engen supports nine Maths and Science schools across South Africa. Among many of those who will go on to study for careers of their choice, the top achievers met with Engen’s Corporate Social Investment head at Engen’s headquarters in Cape Town, to celebrate their outstanding achievements.