Children of Castle Bridge School in Bloemfontein will soon reap the benefits of learning in a modern science lab and newly renovated classrooms following a donation by Engen and the owners of the Engen Bloemfontein 1-Stop.
Engen has invested R360 000 in a project that will feature extensive renovations of an under-resourced school that has a proud record of academic excellence.
The funds were raised by the Engen Bloemfontein 1-Stop as part of Engen’s Dealer Community Partnership Programme, which encourages service station owners to play a meaningful role in their communities. Engen matched the amount raised.
The donation will be used to build a science lab as well as renovation of the flooring, chalkboards, white boards and learner furniture in 20 classrooms.
Engen’s Corporate Social Investment Manager, Mntu Nduvane, says this improved learning environment will empower learners to excel in various fields. “In particular, the science lab will ensure that learners are exposed to basic science equipment in an environment that is conducive to learning,” she says.
“By creating this positive experiential learning experience, the subject matter will really come alive for the learners,” add Bloemfontein 1-Stop director’s Billy Bleeker and Eben Sutherland.
Raletebele G Daniels, Principal of Castle Bridge Combined School is grateful to Engen for the support. “The biggest impact for us will be the reaction from our teachers and students when they see their new facilities. They will be proud of the new environment in which students can thrive and learn,” says Daniels.
“This generous donation will further enhance the school to realise its vision and that of the National Development Plan 2025. Our vision is aligned to Engen in that we both focus on Science, Mathematics and commercially training and upskilling learners so that they can meet the many challenges and skills shortages in these fields in the future,” adds Daniels.
Engen Bloemfontein 1-Stop Director Khwezi Mazibuko, says: “As a previously disadvantaged school, we chose to support Castle Bridge school because they have consistently risen above difficult circumstances with excellent results and remaining true to its motto of Today’s Learners, Tomorrow’s Leaders.”
Tasneem Sulaiman-Bray, Engen general manager: Corporate Affairs, says the company is honoured to be associated with Castle Bridge School. “As Engen we are proud to partner with our many service stations owners who actively contribute to the development of disadvantaged communities through the funding of specific initiatives in order to uplift and educate those in need.”
