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Inside Education Reporter
Leshata Secondary School’s Tshilidzi Ramudzuli Ravhutulu has earned a coveted place to study Actuarial Science at the University of the Witwatersrand in 2024 on the back of an incredible set of matric results.
With five distinctions, including 96% for Maths and 98% for Physical Science, 18-year-old Tshilidzi attributes much of his success to the Engen Maths and Science School he attended at Zakariyya Park in 2023.
“The EMSS programme not only helped me with exam preparation, but an added benefit was the study notes and stationery. I was also grateful for the academic help as well as the emotional support, which made it easier to cope with the academic stress,” comments the Orange Farm resident.
Inspired by Aristotle’s philosophy that excellence is a result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution, Tshilidzi offers valuable advice to this year’s matric learners, encouraging them to believe in themselves and their dreams.
“Always work hard and consistently. Matric is a tough year,” says Tshilidzi, who lost his father at age 12, which meant his mother became the sole breadwinner for him and his three siblings.
Attending classes every Saturday at the EMSS at Zakariyya Park, Tshilidzi reflects on a tough first term of matric, expressing his gratitude for the support of his family and finding solace in his love of music during stressful times.
Excited about the future, Tshilidzi aspires to qualify as an actuary and dreams of owning his own insurance company, showcasing his determination to succeed against all odds.
The Engen Maths and Science School programme has been running for over 35 years and proudly helps nurture talented young South Africans like Tshilidzi by providing free supplementary education to over 1 500 learners annually at 10 centres across South Africa.
These centres are in Cape Town (classes are held at Cape Peninsula University of Technology and Manzombotho High), the Eastern Cape (in East London, Cala, and Gqeberha), Johannesburg (Zakariyya Park), and KwaZulu-Natal (at Fairvale High School, Ganges High School, Hillview High School, and Umlazi Commercial High School).
Engen’s CSI Manager, Olwethu Mdabula, emphasises the programme’s focus on gateway subjects—mathematics, English, and science—to help address the country’s skills shortage and contribute to economic growth.
Mdabula explains that EMSS aims to unlock the potential of talented young learners, providing them with the resources and guidance needed to achieve academic excellence and pursue tertiary education.
Recent Department of Basic Education data indicates improvements in pass rates for mathematics and physical science. However, the limited number of learners achieving the essential 60% minimum mark in maths and science for university entrance to engineering, commerce and science degrees underscores the vital role played by EMSS in supporting young talent, especially in STEM subjects.
“EMSS is dedicated to transforming the lives of young learners, who often face severe socio-economic challenges, by bridging educational gaps, and empowering them to reach their full potential,” comments Mdabula.
As a company, Engen champions the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 – Quality Education, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
“Engen is keenly aware that access to quality education and gender equality is everybody’s business, and that it owes it to its employees, customers, and broader society to make every effort to drive positive change,” adds Mdabula.
“It is Engen’s ultimate reward to help set talented people up to pursue stimulating careers that won’t only benefit them personally, but also their families and the broader economy of South Africa.”
Engen is incredibly proud of all EMSS learners who completed matric in 2023.
Engen is hosting a series of awards ceremonies in February at EMSS centres across South Africa where the programme’s Grade 10-12 learners will be honoured, and the top achievers named.
Tshilidzi’s story is a testament to the impact of EMSS in shaping young minds and contributing to South Africa’s growth.
Engen’s dedication to creating a diverse and vibrant workforce aligns with its goal of setting talented individuals on paths that benefit not only them but also their families and the broader economy.
INSIDE EDUCATION