A second Engen Maths and Science School (EMSS) has opened in Cape Town, pushing the total number of Engen backed schools to 10 across South Africa. Based at Manzomthomobo Secondary School in Mfuleni, it joins the EMSS based out of CPUT as the second school in the Mother City that offers free supplementary maths, science and English tuition to underprivileged grade 10-12 learners.
Representatives from the Western Cape Education Department attended the official launch in Mfuleni on 29 September 2021.
The new EMSS at Manzomthomobo Secondary School caters for 150 learners from feeder secondary schools in Bardale, Mfuleni, and Masibambisane, as well as Delft Technical School.
The EMSS programme has run for over 33 years and strives to instil a learning environment that focuses on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (Steam).
Principal John Mathiso says Manzomthombo Secondary School are again reaping the benefits of quality learning courtesy of Engen.
âIn 2016, Engen made an extremely generous multi-million Rand donation to Manzomthomobo, which enabled us to build seven modern science and computer laboratories as well as upgrade our technology classroom,â says Mathiso.
He says the benefits of learning in modern facilities, has resulted in a thriving academic environment and a proud record of academic excellence.
âWe are very grateful to Engen for their continued support and are extremely excited to host Cape Townâs second Engen Maths and Science School. Our teachers and students are very proud of our quality learning environment, which enables students to thrive and excel,â adds Mathiso.
Despite being situated in a disadvantaged community characterised by high unemployment and social challenges, Manzomthombo Secondary School has consistently defied the odds with excellent matric results, remaining true to its motto of âQuality and Excellenceâ.
Comments Principal Mathiso: âOur teachers strive to offer quality teaching and learning to around 1 638 learners and this is evident in the school matric pass rate in 2020 which was an impressive 90.1%â
It is a record of consistent academic performance across all grades that is admired by Hassan who says Engen is proud to be associated with Manzomthombo Secondary School.
âNot only is this school an inspiration, but a shining beacon of hope as its demographics speak closely to the skills development and social investment imperatives of Engen.
âWith 100% of the learner population being from disadvantaged communities, this upliftment project remains true to the South African objective of elevating those in needâ, he adds.
EMSS classes are currently held every Saturday at ten locations across South Africa, including Cape Town (CPUT and Manzomthombo Secondary School), Port Elizabeth, East London, Cala and Johannesburg, and in KwaZulu-Natal at Fairvale High School, Ganges High School, Howard College, and Mangosuthu University of Technology.
