Problem-solving and critical thinking set to be boosted in vulnerable schools
As part of enabling partnership between PPC and the Department of Basic Education, two high-tech science labs and 10 smart tablets have been donated to Eletsa Secondary School and Phelindaba Secondary School in Brits and Atteridgeville west of Pretoria. Over the past 5 years, PPC’s science education program has made 33 mobile science labs available to schools across South Africa. Valued at R180 000 each, the Mobile Science Labs and smart tablets empower the teachers and learners to encourage critical thinking and problem solving while adhering to COVID19 regulations.
Mobile labs are the ideal alternative for schools that do not have a laboratory of their own, as they incorporate both technology and the science equipment needed to conduct the experiments covered in the school syllabus.
Boitumelo Mnisi – PPC General Manager explains, “Education is one of our core focus areas. No matter how disadvantaged the students have been, we strive to provide relevant tools to help them excel and achieve their dreams. The lab will help both the educators and learners with the improvement of the science teaching experience, learning and consequently assist with the improvement of pass rates”.
The laboratories will be used to teach science to Grade 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 learners, enabling practical and interactive demonstrations, as well as appropriate exam revision. Incorporating the technology and science to conduct experiments needed in South Africa’s high school syllabuses, learners have the opportunity to gain a closer look at the world.
Principal Mr. Marvin at Eletsa Secondary School said “Learners are going to get a great benefit from it and there will be effective teaching and learning in science projects. I am thankful for this and our results will show how much we appreciate this”
As a 100% local company that provides 100% quality cement and materials, PPC’s ongoing engagement with the communities in which it operates has propelled the business to empower the community to experience a better quality of life. Taking the lessons that have come from operating in South Africa over the past 128 years, PPC remains optimistic about the opportunities that exist in the socio-economic landscape and our education system.
“Our teachers are keen to expand their capabilities in curriculum support as we work to bolster their learning environment in line with COVID-19 guidelines. The lab will connect our children through a lifeline of education which will aid in improving the quality of scientific knowledge once learners embark on tertiary education. The mobile science lab provided to us by PPC will also help to enhance science teaching experience, learning and consequently assist with the improvement of pass rates in science,” said Ms. Lehobye, Principal at Phelindaba Secondary School.
In recognition of the lack of equipment in our schools, the business’ efforts have been a welcomed contribution in the school as school leaders have been working to innovate their teaching to ensure that the learners are well placed to complete the academic year. The mobile science lab encourages the learners to realise their potential and will assist with improving their science experience.
“Our commitment is to continue to build stronger communities in the socio-economic development of South Africa, particularly in the communities in which we operate. We hope that today’s donation will unlock new career options for many of these learners and impact their lives well into the future” concluded Mnisi.
