On 18 July 2018, Fluor, a global engineering and construction company, once again partnered with SABC 2 and the SABC Foundation to handover a newly refurbished, state of the art science laboratory to the principal, staff and learners of the Lofentse Girls High School in Orlando, Soweto.

“In view of the shortage of engineers nationally and globally, and for that matter the shortage of young African female ones, we believe that this refurbished facility will encourage learners to follow a career in engineering,” said Fluor South Africa’s corporate affairs manager, Linda Nxumalo.

“We also want to help improve the performance in mathematics and science, and believe that the renovated laboratory will support this goal. It’s a recognised fact that often the issue is not about ability or potential, but rather about access and exposure. We pride ourselves in creating a platform that addresses some of the challenges posed by this need and poverty in township schools.”

Criteria used to select Lofentse Girls High School included the manner in which the school is run, as well as their asset management abilities. “We looked at the school’s performance and matric results over the last three years, as well as the commitment from the teachers, the school’s leadership, learners’ conduct and discipline, and the School Governing Body’s support and participation in school administration,” she said.

SABC2 Head of Bouquet, Gerhard Pretorius said: “Education forms one of SABC 2’s key pillars which happened to be one of Madiba’s passions. He once said "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”, and this has been one of the reasons why we want to continue embracing his legacy on the day the world celebrates Mandela’s Centenary.

“We have always supported some of Mandela’s initiatives and we wanted to be part of this year’s centenary celebrations. Our three-year collaboration with Fluor has been a great partnership as we give back to our communities through education. The handover of a state of the art laboratory ensures that we entrench the education pillar in communities and we are sure that this will help unveil future scientists,” Pretorius added.

The opening day was a festive one with learners and guests being entertained by the school’s choir, well known SABC2 television personalities, young professional Fluor women engineers and Elijah Mhlanga, Chief Director, Media Liaison, National and Provincial Communication at the Department of Basic Education.

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Issued by Venetia de Vries,

Marketing on Demand, Inc. SA

On behalf of Fluor and SABC2, Lebo Malete.

Contact: 011 482 5775/083 288 9883.