TJIBENG
Sefateng Chrome Mine has made a considerable contribution to local education by handing over four classroom block and a computer lab to the Matienyane Primary School at Tjibeng on May 15.
The event was held at the Tjibeng Community Hall. Attendees included Limpopo Department of Education’s Sekhukhune East district representatives, the school management team, teachers, learners, representatives of the local Tribal Authority, members of the Tjibeng Community Trust and community representatives; and the management of Sefateng Chrome Mine
The construction of four classroom block including installation of WiFi and computers is to the value of over R2.8 million.
According to the mine, the decision to build the four (4) classrooms block was informed by the urgent need to address overcrowding and inadequate learning space within the school.
Speaking during the handover of the state-of-the-art buildings, Sefateng Chrome Mine’s Social and Labour Plan Manager, Peter Lentswane said the donations is a milestone in the mine’s commitment towards sustainable community development and meaningful investment in education through the mine’s Social and Labour Plan initiatives.
“We understood that learners and educators were operating under difficult conditions which negatively affected both teaching and learning outcomes. Education cannot thrive in an environment where classrooms are insufficient, overcrowded, or structurally compromised.”
Lentswane said through the project they aim to create a safer, more conducive and more inspiring learning environment for children.
“’We believe that every learner deserves access to quality facilities that support their educational journey and unlock their full potential.”
The mine management said they supported the establishment of the computer laboratory because they recognized they are living in a rapidly evolving digital world.
“Today, computer literacy is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity. Learners must be equipped with technological skills that will enable them to compete equally with their peers both nationally and globally” said Peter Lentswane
Limpopo education’s representatives Selaelo Nkube and the principal of Matienyane Primary School Raesetja Makgopa thanked Sefateng for their investment in educational projects.
“To our donors, we promise to be good custodians of what you have given us. We will take good care of the computers and more importantly, we will use them to change our lives,” said Makgopa.
She added, “To our teachers, this donation comes with responsibility. Let us use these computers well, and maintain them, and ensure that every learner benefits. Let these machines become tools that spark curiosity and build confidence.”
Nkube urged local mining companies to declare all the activities they are doing and sponsoring in local schools.
“ This will help in monitoring and ensuring companies adhere to norms and standards set by the department. We are thankful to Sefateng for this much needed donations.”
The mine management acknowledged a growing demand for technology and digital learning, highlighting the need for a second phase aimed at upgrading and expanding the computer lab.
This will ensure improved access to computers, internet connectivity, educational software, and other technological resources that can further enhance the quality of learning.
Computers donated at Matienyane are equipped with software, MS Word, and Kaspersky antivirus , the mine will also be paying WIFI subscription for the coming three years.
Matienyane School is not the only school which will benefit from the mine’s educational programs.
“We will extend support to other deserving schools. As Sefateng, we remain committed to partnering with government, schools, communities and other stakeholders to contribute meaningfully towards improving the lives of our host communities.” concluded Lentswane