Among the 397 matric learners who have come through the 2014 Engen Maths & Science Schools (EMSS) support programme, many have faced socio- economic challenges and yet despite these difficulties they have delivered star performances enabled by the extra tuition, provided by Engen.

This was evident at a EMSS graduation ceremony in East London this weekend where graduates of the Gauteng Engen Maths and Science Schools were awarded with certificates and applauded for delivering the programme’s best ever performance.

“In the almost 30 year-history of the EMSS programme, no other group has achieved an average pass rate of 99%.  This in comparison to the national average of 75.8% is spectacular,“ commented Mntu Nduvane, Engen’s Corporate Social Investment Manager.

Nduvane added that the significance of this could really be understood when one looks back and sees the general upward trend in the EMSS pass rate over time.

“This tells us that the young people we honour today are not just blessed with potential and a sought-after set of skills: they have taken on an intense extra tuition programme, and their lives are forever changed as their reward. They know success comes to those who want it and work for it. It is this philosophy that has made EMSS learners increasingly successful over the years.”

Another important statistic is that of the 99% of learners who passed, 70% of these students achieved a bachelor pass. The national average for a bachelor pass was 41%.

Special mention went to:
o   The top student for the year in the East London area – Chuma Cakata from Ebenezer Secondary School who obtained distinctions in mathematics and physical science.
o   Second in the East London area was Usiphile Mendela from Stirling Secondary School who achieved a distinction in mathematics and physical science.
o   Third in the East London area was Mziwanele Gadu from Tsholomnqa Secondary School who achieved distinctions in both mathematics and physical science.

Nduvane said that Engen firmly believes that the company’s efforts in addressing today’s critical skills shortages are bearing fruit.

“But the real winners are the many learners who get to pursue their dreams, many of whom have had to face socio- economic challenges during their academic year.  We are proud of all our graduates and wish them the best in their upcoming studies and careers,” he added.

For more information please contact Gavin Smith, Engen Group Communication Manager,
Gavin.Smith@engenoil.com   Tel: +27 21 403 4312   Cell: +27 82 379 1700