In recent years, the world has witnessed a rapid technological revolution, transformed various industries and shaped the future of work. In this dynamic landscape, coding and robotics have emerged as vital skills that not only enhance problem-solving abilities but also foster creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. For learners in South African underdeveloped schools, gaining access to coding and robotics training is a transformative opportunity that can bridge the educational gap and empower them to thrive in the 21st-century digital era.

The majority of beneficiaries in the career support initiatives are learners and teachers from schools in disadvantaged areas. The initiative provides access to learning opportunities, access to quality information and tools for careers in the mining sector. It includes extra lessons in Maths and Science, computer lessons and a holiday enrichment programme that includes work experience, career guidance and leadership camps. It exposes learners from grades 8 to 10 (with potential in Maths and Science) to high-quality teachers (including coaches and mentors) and stimulating scientific materials and information.

Target Participants:

The collaborative involvement of learners, teachers, scientists, academics, mining specialists, engineers, media, and decision-makers holds immense significance in coding and robotics projects of this nature. These diverse stakeholders collectively contribute to a comprehensive and well-rounded educational ecosystem. Learners engage in hands-on coding and robotics projects that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Teachers facilitate this process by guiding and inspiring students, nurturing their technological skills and curiosity. Scientists and academics bring scientific rigor, research insights, and innovative ideas to enhance the projects, ensuring they align with cutting-edge developments in the field. Mining specialists and engineers provide practical industry expertise, infusing real-world applications and relevance into the projects. Media amplifies the impact by showcasing these endeavors, raising awareness about the value of STEM education and inspiring more participants. Decision-makers play a pivotal role in providing necessary resources, policies, and support, fostering an enabling environment for these projects to thrive. The collaborative engagement of these stakeholders not only enriches coding and robotics learning experiences but also ensures that learners are prepared for the technological demands of the future and that the broader community benefits from their innovative contributions.

Geographical coverage

Stem support programmes for sustainable development is a national-wide initiative to reach the marginalised and remote communities.

• Quintiles 1 to 3 schools (Non-paying / no-fees) will be prioritised for this initiative.

• African/Blacks and Coloured communities will be preferred for most of the activities.

• Collaborations with government (national, provincial and local) will also be sorted.

• Collaboration with private sector will plough back to the communities.