R1.26mil to assist learners in maths and science

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Cape Town - An amount of R1.26 million has been donated to False Bay College to strengthen the Grade 10 to 12 tutoring programme on offer at the college's Centre of Science and Technology.

The programmes is offered to learners wishing to improve their marks in maths, science and information technology

Established 10 years ago, the centre has produced a 100 percent Grade 12 pass rate every year since the first group matriculated in 2001, this includes a consistent 60 to 70 percent university exemption rate.

Oil company, PetroSA, was approached by the centre for funding last year.

PetroSA Vice-President in Operations, Dan Marokane said the sponsorship was aimed at encouraging learners to pursue careers in the maths, science and technology fields.

He said the petroleum industry, which is a major player, requires skilled people with qualifications in the three subjects' fields.

"It is an acknowledged fact that South Africa faces an acute shortage of skills in critical areas such as engineering, commercial and scientific professions.

"By sponsoring the centre we want to fill this skills gap by supporting and encouraging initiatives that build capacity," Mr Marokane said.

PetroSA is a proud supporter of community development projects in the education, health, environment and women's empowerment areas.

In the past three years, the company has donated over R200 million to corporate social responsibility initiatives.