Despite the Department of Basic Education’s best efforts, South African school pupils face an uphill battle every single day. In 2023, more South African school pupils completed their education than ever before, but the nation still only ranks 41st globally. Plus, South African school pupils remain at the bottom of international tables in math and science. To that end, a unique partnership between private, public and government sectors is working to benefit learners in the field of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects.
Specifically, Ford South Africa, Gift of the Givers Foundation and Maersk have delivered 100 fully equipped math and science labs to underprivileged schools. These laboratories, distributed across all nine provinces, are made from refurbished shipping containers. They will immediately benefit 20 000 kids this year, and as many as 250 000 students in the coming decade. We attended the milestone 100th handover at Vlottenburg Primary School in Stellenbosch this week.
UPLIFTING SOUTH AFRICAN SCHOOL PUPILS
This initiative forms part of Ford South Africa’s 100-year celebration in the country. The oldest carmaker in Mzansi wanted to give back to South African school pupils. Container number one was handed over to a school in Mamelodi, near Ford’s Silverton Plant in Pretoria, back in November 2023. The Blue Oval hopes these containers will set grade 5-7 learners on a path towards math, science and engineering careers.
Furthermore, Maersk – a long-time partner of Ford from as long ago as 1928 – sourced and refurbished the 100 containers. And it’s understood the project commanded a 36.7-million total investment, and was completed ahead of schedule in just eight months.
‘TO GO FORWARD YOU NEED TO GIVE BACK’
Speaking at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the president of Ford Motor Company Africa Neale Hill said: “As we celebrate 100 years of Ford’s legacy in South Africa, we are extremely proud. The delivery of 100 math and science laboratories represents our dedication to building a bright future in South Africa. We want South African school pupils to have the tools and opportunities to excel in a technology-driven world. This initiative is not just about facilities, it’s about unlocking potential and giving children the skills to dream bigger and break the cycle of poverty.”
Founder and chairman of Gift of the Givers Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman also attended the milestone event: “We applaud Ford South Africa for this innovative concept to boost underprivileged areas across South Africa. This is not only about education and learning, but it also brings hope to the learners, educators, parents and the community. It serves as inspiration, and recognises that each person matters, even in rural South Africa. It shows they are not forgotten. We have witnessed the huge impact this project has already had on communities. And how grateful the people are for this support.”
LEAVING A LEGACY
In addition to the labs, Ford South Africa is also launching two additional legacy projects for its centenary. Specifically, the company turns its attention to completing 100 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres. These are being produced in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation. To date, 27 ECD centres in disadvantaged areas have been handed over.
Furthermore, Ford Philanthropy is committed to supporting education in the senior school phase and at vocational colleges. It is awarding 100 scholarships to talented pupils from impoverished communities. Specifically, in the fields of mechatronics, autotronics, and electrical trades. A total of 45 scholarships have already been awarded in 2024, with the remaining 55 following next year.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THESE INITIATIVES?
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