Transformers Project Launches in Sekhukhune and Mashishing Districts
The JumpStart Foundation, in collaboration with the Boleng Trust, Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine, and the Department of Education in Limpopo, proudly launched the Transformers project on April 19 at Ga-Malekane Community Hall. This initiative aims to build strong foundational skills in math and literacy, ensuring academic success while creating job opportunities for local youth.
The Transformers mathematics and literacy program will be implemented in eight primary schools, ten Early Childhood Development Centers (ECD) in the Ngwaabe district, and two primary schools in Mashishing. As the lead organization, JumpStart, in partnership with Penreach and Kelello, will oversee the implementation of this program. To support the program, 39 educator assistants (interns) from the Ngwaabe and Mashishing districts have been hired and will work with participating schools to ensure daily classroom implementation.
Dwarsrivier Chrome Mine and the Boleng Trust have a long history of investing in educational projects within the community. “We’ve recognized the importance of investing in children during the foundation phase, as it has become evident that our students face challenges during matriculation and in their pursuit of higher education,” says Remember Mmbengwa, Sustainable Development Manager at DCM.
Boitshwarelo Matundu, Project Manager at Boleng Trust, encouraged the interns to seize this opportunity as a platform to kickstart their careers. “Go out there and do your best; remain dedicated to assisting the learners to improve their results,” he advised.
Madikgake Masha, Ngwaabe Circuit manager, expressed confidence that the program would elevate the standard of education in both circuits. He welcomed the JumpStart interns and emphasized the importance of addressing challenges in subjects like math and English: “Math and English are some of the subjects troubling our pupils. With this initiative, we will be amongst the top-achieving circuits in the country.”
With this initiative, Masha envisions their circuits becoming national top achievers. He trusts JumpStart and Penreach to deliver outstanding results for local pupils. The JumpStart Educator Assistants began their duties at local schools on Monday, April 22nd.
This collaboration highlights the power of partnerships and investments in education, driving forward a shared vision of academic excellence and community development.
Author: Lufuno Muthubi -Mthethwa