A brand new chapter was opened at Sibusisiwe Comprehensive Technical High School following the recent launch of a new Same Foundation science laboratory sponsored by Philip Morris South Africa. The Same Foundation is an NPO that implements high-impact development projects in public education and healthcare facilities, with the sole objective to create an environment where quality education and healthcare is available to everyone.
The school is based in Umbumbulu and teaches 1500 pupils. Due to overcrowding and under-resourcing, the school could not provide a science classroom to properly teach their learners.
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Naomi Beretta of the Same Foundation explained that the science lab is one of 12 education development projects undertaken across the country by the organisation this year and said, “Investing in science and technology is vital for the future of young South African learners. As we enter the Fourth Industrial Revolution, entrants into the workforce are expected to have some form of stem (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) literacy. Presumably, eighty-per cent of prospective jobs will require some form of stem education in 2020. Advancing disadvantaged learners in science and technology will set them up for success and empower them to enter the workforce. Providing a new science lab in such a rural and underprivileged community such as Umbumbulu provides the proper facilities for eager and initiating students to expose themselves to STEM subjects. This project will be instrumental in the future success and preparedness of these high school learners.”
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The laboratory was completed in November and is part of a focused effort by the Foundation to invest in science and technology at the school. The organisation also established a fully equipped computer centre at the school in 2018.
Grade 11 learner at the school and head girl Mbili Banele said, “At Sibusisiwe, we understand that since Same Foundation works with schools all over South Africa, their mission is to allow children in extremely poor communities the opportunity to reach their full potential. They have shown us just how much they believe we can make it to success. We want to show them that they make no mistake in entrusting us with this science lab, and we promise nothing but the best academic results. Personally, Same Foundation has encouraged me to grow into a better woman, change the world for better, and bring hope to the children of the world as you have done for us.”
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