Siemens goes to school

By Staff Writer for Siemens

Johannesburg, 07 Mar 2008

Siemens is supporting government's Dinaledi maths and science schools initiative as part of its Generation 21 worldwide education programme.

The company recently provided IT equipment, furniture, stationery and science equipment to the Ingqayizivele High School, in Tembisa, near Midrand in Gauteng. The company will also provide security equipment at a later stage.

Siemens SA corporate social responsibility manager Emily Molefe says the company signed a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Education and Ingqayizivele High School, in October

"Siemens continuously strives for better educational and social performance as sustainable development that impacts positively on the country's growth in the field of science and technology," says Molefe.

"Siemens SA has a comprehensive approach to corporate social investment (CSI), with active programmes in the fields of education, public welfare, arts and culture, employee wellness and the environment."

The Generation 21 Partner School Programme is aimed at generating interest in maths and science among students, and encourages students to pursue technology-related careers. Another core focus of the partnership is to improve the learning experience for the students in general and, in so doing, hopefully contribute to the quality of academic outputs.

As part of this global initiative, Molefe says Siemens' approach is to help Ingqayizivele High School financially by buying equipment to benefit the 1 600 learners and 47 teachers.

"We have installed 20 PCs with relevant software, 500 chairs, 300 desks, equipment for the science laboratories and stationery," Molefe says. "We will also upgrade the school's security with a new CCTV system."

In addition to providing the equipment, Siemens employees will offer part-time tuition to students and teachers in areas such as computer skills and human resources. Students will also receive guidance on how to apply for bursaries and other tertiary training.