Diepdale Secondary school in Diepkloof, Soweto, is the recipient of a state-of-the-art science laboratory established through a strategic collaboration between the SAME Foundation, Fluor and the SABC Foundation. The laboratory was officially opened on Wednesday 26 July by the Department of Basic Education National and Provincial Spokesperson Mr. Elijah Mhlanga.
Not only has the science lab been completely renovated and fully equipped, it also has an e-learning system that will enhance the science curriculum for learners and teachers. The lab allows learners to conduct their science experiments in a safe environment. Learners received lab clothing such as goggles, coats, masks and gloves. Diepdale Secondary School receives this science laboratory just two months before the class of 2017 sits to write their preliminary exams in September.
“Today is a great day in education, the community must embrace the good work and make sure that this facility is protected so that learners can come to school and learn.” Said Elijah Mhlanga, on behalf of the Department of Basic Education.
In response, Principal Johannes Munakisi mentioned that the school will reward the donors with good results going forward.
Fluor and the SABC have partnered with the SAME Foundation on this project as both companies, from a CSI/CSR perspective, selected STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) education as an area of investment with the objective to make a positive contribution in the communities within it operates. This project is also an opportunity to contribute towards the National Development Plan’s 2030 Goals.
“The companies strategically chose STEM as an area of investment in view of the shortage of Engineers nationally and globally and believe that this upgrading of facilities, will encourage learners to follow a career in Engineering as this will guarantee us of a pool of Engineers in the future,” said Thabang Tawarima, Fluor South Africa’s Manager Corporate Affairs & Business Development.
Dianne Pols, Executive Director of SAME, said that the school was chosen as it was in dire need which was a perfect fit for the Foundation as it implements strategic community upliftment projects. The school had gone through a phase of continual disruptions and had no adequate infrastructure, resources or support. Pols continued that with new leadership in place at the school, the SAME Foundation has committed to support the school through the provision of vital resources focusing on Science, Maths and Technology.
The laboratory is part of a larger SAME Foundation project at Diepdale, the project outcomes will be two new science labs, nine maths classrooms and a computer centre.
Lab Before (click the image to enlarge):
New Lab:
