Speaking at the EMSS Cape Town Awards ceremony on Saturday, 8 March — held to celebrate top learners from the EMSS centres hosted at Cape Peninsula University of Technology and Manzomthombo Secondary School — Engen CSI Manager, Olwethu Mdabula, highlighted the programme's crucial role in addressing critical skills shortages in maths and science.

Since its inception in 1987, EMSS has been a cornerstone of Engen's commitment to societal transformation, providing over 1 500 learners annually with free supplementary tuition, the company says. 

The 2024 EMSS matric class achieved an 82% bachelor pass rate, marking a 5% increase from the previous year. This result underscores the impact of EMSS in empowering underprivileged Grade 10 to 12 learners at its ten centres across South Africa, Engen says.

"Of the 415 matriculants enrolled in the programme in 2024, 131 deserving learners have been awarded full bursaries to pursue tertiary studies in engineering, accounting, computing and other related fields. This illustrates Engen's commitment to facilitating access to STEM higher education and unlocking opportunities for future leaders," Mdabula adds.

The ten EMSS centres currently in operation include:

• KwaZulu-Natal: Fairvale High School, Ganges High School, Hillview High School and Umlazi Commercial High School
• Eastern Cape: East London, Cala and Gqeberha
• Western Cape: CPUT and Manzomthombo Secondary School, and
• Gauteng: Zakariyya Park Combined School.

"Through targeted support and resource allocation, EMSS empowers students to unlock their full potential and pursue fulfilling careers," Mdabula says.

Mdabula concludes, "Engen recognises that investing in quality education is vital for driving positive change and fostering a diverse, skilled workforce. By championing educational excellence through initiatives like EMSS, Engen is not only shaping individual destinies but also contributing to South Africa's broader socioeconomic advancement. Our ultimate reward is helping talented individuals build meaningful careers that benefit not only themselves but also their families and the wider economy."

For more information, visit www.engen.co.za. You can also follow Engen on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor