SATURDAY SCHOOL CLASSES

After investing in a R200 000 science laboratory at Zwelihle High School, Umlazi, in 2006, SAPREF supported a Saturday School in 2007 to equip learners with Maths, Science and Life Orientation skills. The classes are attended by approximately 300 students from Zwelihle and other neighbouring schools. Towards the end of 2007 it was decided to extend the scope of the Saturday School to include members of the community and this will be implemented during 2008. SAPREF also sponsored R40 000 towards Saturday classes at the Merebank Community Centre.

SCIENCE KITS

In 2007 SAPREF and sister company Shell Chemicals joined forces to provide fourteen science kits for schools in the Isipingo area at a cost of R134 111. The kits used by Grade 4-12 learners comprise mini chemistry equipment, electronic kits, spirit burners, electronic balance and power supply to assist the schools with Maths and Science education. Recipient schools were: Isipingo Primary School, Isipingo Hills, Isipingo Beach Intermediate, Gokul Primary, Kamalinee Primary, Umlazi Commercial High School, Platt Drive Primary, Orissa Primary, Orient Hill Primary School, Isipingo Secondary, Strelitzia Secondary, Primrose Primary, Windy Heights Primary and Reunion Secondary.

CLF SOCCER PROJECT

Ten South Durban schools participated in the SAPREF CLF Soccer Development Programme tournament event held at the SAPREF grounds on 25 October. The pilot programme, which was in its third and final year, was started with the aim of unearthing and developing soccer talent in the South Durban Basin. About 750 learners participated in the tournament. In 2008 a review of the pilot programme will take place with the Community Liaison Forum.

DONATIONS IN KIND

In 2007 SAPREF was able to donate a number of items to schools and non-governmental organizations in neighbouring communities. The items included wooden containers used as a tuckshop for an Umlazi school and as an office for a NGO, chairs, computers, a podium, presentation projectors, a television set, a microwave oven and a fridge.

SCHOOLS ENTREPRENEURSHIP COMPETITION

More than 100 primary and high school learners from KwaZulu-Natal entered the SAPREF Mercury School Entrepreneurs Competition in 2007. SAPREF supported the competition to encourage learners to start their own businesses and to change their mindsets from job-seekers to job-makers. During the course of the year, youngsters experienced the practical aspects of running a business, gaining basic skills and the confidence to choose self-employment as a career option later.