Isuzu Motors South Africa has renewed its partnership with Nelson Mandela University to strengthen Mathematics and Physical Science education in under-resourced schools across Nelson Mandela Bay.
The renewed collaboration with the Govan Mbeki Mathematics Development Centre (GMMDC) extends a partnership that began in 2018, focused on improving learner outcomes in critical STEM subjects while supporting educator development and blended digital learning.
The impact of sustained intervention is evident in the 2025 matric results. Learners supported through the programme achieved an 80% pass rate in both Mathematics and Physical Science, outperforming national averages of 64% and 77,3% respectively.
Beyond pass rates, progression outcomes were equally encouraging. Of the 30 learners who participated in the programme, 25 achieved Bachelor or Diploma passes, strengthening their access to tertiary education and STEM-linked career pathways.
The programme combines learner incubation, digital learning resources and professional development support for Mathematics educators, helping create more dynamic and inclusive classrooms.
“The GMMDC programme delivers interactive digital resources and professional development programmes for Mathematics educators, fostering dynamic, inclusive learning environments”, Govan Mbeki Mathematics Development Centre Project Leader, Natalie Gill explained. “With the support received from Isuzu Motors South Africa, we have been able to empower a significant number of learners through strengthening connections between classroom learning and real-world challenges, promoting sustainable education impact in public schools”, Gill added.
For Isuzu Motors South Africa, education forms a central pillar of its societal leadership strategy, aligned with building future technical and engineering talent required in the manufacturing and automotive sectors.
“The partnership with GMMDC brings to life our commitment to improve the quality of education and narrowing the skills gap in South Africa, through this collaboration, we have encouraged the adoption of STEM subjects in our schools, aligning learning outcomes with the skills and needs of the future,” said Nandi Matomela, Department Executive Corporate Affairs, Isuzu Motors South Africa. “We are encouraged to see some of the learners who came out of the GMMDC programme pursuing careers in engineering- and related fields- and we remain committed to supporting the development of the next generation of innovators, engineers and professionals.”
Former participants are already pursuing tertiary qualifications in disciplines such as Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Accounting, reflecting the programme’s long-term contribution to strengthening South Africa’s professional talent pipeline.
Through the renewed agreement, IMSAf and GMMDC will continue expanding learner mentorship, educator support and innovative teaching tools, reinforcing pathways into the growing STEM economy and creating broader access to meaningful employment opportunities for young South Africans.
