Steinmüller Africa celebrates excellence in education

Steinmüller Africa, part of the Bilfinger group of companies, has expanded its TRAC South Africa programme from five to ten schools in the Nkangala District Municipality, Mpumalanga. Since its inception in 2020, the initiative has benefited 2,483 learners.

This inaugural annual prize-giving ceremony, hosted by Steinmüller Africa in partnership with TRAC, recognised the top-performing learners.  

“These students have demonstrated incredible resilience and determination in reaching this milestone. Their achievements are a testament to the power of education in empowering individuals and strengthening communities. By investing in the next generation, we are investing in the future of our country. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments and look forward to the positive impact they will make in the future. They have inspired us to expand this programme,” says Karin Kaempffer, Executive General Manager, Steinmüller Africa.

Notable award winners during the event were Zikalala Siphesihle Innocent from Alpheus D Nkosi Secondary School (SS), who won a trophy and certificate for being the top physical science learner, while Libambo Gugu from Mphanama Secondary School (Middelburg) won a trophy and a certificate for top mathematics learner.

TRAC South Africa is a national non-profit initiative from Stellenbosch University, dedicated to improving Physical Science and Mathematics education in South African secondary schools.

The programme was initialised in 2020 as a Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) socio-economic development initiative. The aim was to improve the school pass rate which had been negatively affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The programme currently supports ten schools:

• Kriel High School
• Alpheus D Nkosi Secondary School (SS)
• Sibongamanda Secondary School (SS)
• Thistle Grove Secondary School (SS)
• Thomas Nhlabathi Secondary School (SS)

• Bonginsimbi Secondary School (Emalahleni)
• Alex Benjamin Secondary School (Hendrina)
• Allendale Secondary School (Middelburg)
• Sizwakele Secondary School (Middelburg)
• Mphanama Secondary School (Middelburg)

All ten schools are located within the Nkangala District Municipality.

The short-term goal of the expanded programme is to increase the number of learners eligible for university admission around the Govan Mbeki Municipality. The long-term goal is to cultivate local talent for potential future employment within Steinmüller Africa.

The TRAC South Africa programme focuses on uplifting Physical Science and Mathematics education, with particular emphasis on Grades 11 and 12. To achieve this, the expanded programme will continue to implement key focus areas:

• Curriculum-based academic intervention during school terms
• Focused academic support during school vacations
• Vocational guidance, including career testing and interview preparation
• Assistance with tertiary institution applications
• Support in securing funding for tertiary studies
• Ongoing learner progress monitoring and mentoring, with regular pre- and post-tests to assess understanding
• Active educator involvement, with teachers participating in all lessons during TRAC school visits

“We strongly believe that education is the best way to empower individuals and communities. When we invest in students — when we provide them with the tools, resources, and support they need — we are not just investing in their future but in the future of our nation. By sponsoring initiatives like these, we aim to contribute to the socio-economic development of South Africa. To all the learners receiving awards today — this is your moment. You have worked tirelessly to reach this stage, and your achievements reflect your dedication and perseverance,” says Kaempffer.

This latest development adds to Steinmüller Africa’s R10.5 million investment in socio-economic development projects in 2024, with a primary focus on schools and education.

Steinmüller Africa, through its TRAC South Africa programme, is living up to the motto of 'Making Education Work’.

ENDS