Children of Manzomthombo Secondary School in Mfuleni, Cape Town will soon reap the benefits of learning in modern science and computer laboratories and upgraded classrooms following a donation by Engen.
 
Engen, a leading producer and marketer of fuels, lubricants and oil-based products, has invested R1 729 148 in a project that featured extensive renovations of an under-resourced school that has a proud record of academic excellence.
 
Working in collaboration with not-for-profit organisation, the South African Medical & Education Foundation (S.A.M.E Foundation), Engen’s funds have been utilised to build two science labs and a computer lab as well as for the full refurbishment and upgrade of two classrooms.
 
The auditorium-style classrooms have been fitted with formica solid-core desktops, brand new equipment, including: state of the art Smartboard technology with CAPS aligned software, air-conditioning, new floors and ceilings and a 24-hour security system. 
 
Engen’s Corporate Social Investment Manager, Mntu Nduvane says this improved learning environment will empower learners to excel in various fields.
 
“In particular, the science labs will ensure that learners are exposed to basic science equipment in an environment that is conducive to learning. By creating this positive experiential learning experience, the subject matter will really come alive for the learners,” says Nduvane.
 
Despite being situated in a disadvantaged community characterised by high unemployment and social strife, Manzomthombo Secondary School has consistently risen above these circumstances, defying the odds with excellent matric results, remaining true to its motto of ‘Quality and Excellence’.
 
“We are very grateful to Engen for their support. The biggest impact for us will be the reaction from our teachers and students when they see their new facilities. They will be so proud of the new environment in which they can thrive and learn,” says John Matiso, Principal of Manzomthombo Secondary School.
 
Nduvane says the school’s academic performance across all grades is admirable. “Teachers at the school strive to offer quality teaching and learning to around 1 588 learners. “If you look at their 2016 matric results the pass rate was 91.6% up from 2015 were the pass rate was 82.7%.”
 
S.A.M.E Foundation Chairman, Trevor Pols says: “The Foundation is taking this successful science revitalisation model to schools all around the country. Our aim is to ensure that quality education is available to all South Africans.”
 
“Without the partnership of companies like Engen, none of these amazing transformations would be possible. The future of our country rests in the quality of education we provide our youth and we urge businesses to get actively involved and follow in the steps of companies like Engen to help us make a positive difference,” adds Pols
 
“The future of our country rests in the quality of education we provide our youth and we urge businesses to get actively involved and follow in the steps of companies like Engen to help us make a positive difference,” adds Pols.
 
Nduvane says Engen is proud to be associated with Manzomthombo Secondary School. “Not only is this school an inspiration, but a shining beacon of hope as its demographics speak closely to the skills development, BEE and Social Investment imperatives of Engen. With 100% of the learner population being from disadvantaged communities, this sponsorship remains true to the South African objective of uplifting those in need.”