Image: Dr Moloko Matlala interacts with learners during an exciting science engagement session.

In a collaborative effort to uplift education in local communities, the Komatsu Foundation Trust, in partnership with NRF -SAASTA, recently conducted school visits as part of a learner adoption initiative. The outreach included Seshoatlha Secondary School, Sephuthi Senior Secondary School, and Mabalane Seleka Technical School, where the teams delivered vital academic support under the Komatsu School and Learner Adoption Programme.

Through the generous backing of the Komatsu Foundation Trust, selected learners from these schools are receiving financial assistance to support their educational development. During the visits, NRF-SAASTA distributed essential learning tools such as scientific calculators, mathematics sets, and additional academic resources aimed at boosting learner performance.

In an effort to enrich school life beyond the classroom, NRF-SAASTA also encouraged the formation of afterschool clubs. Learners were provided with detailed guide booklets on how to establish and manage these clubs, fostering spaces where students can pursue extracurricular interests and build new skills. Adding a spark to the day, NRF-SAASTA joined forces with Sci-Enza, a science education outreach programme based at the University of Pretoria, to deliver interactive science shows for Grade 8 to 10 learners. These hands-on demonstrations included explosive hydrogen balloon experiments, binary number games, surface tension explorations, and an energetic display of Newton’s Third Law. Crowd pleasers such as the elephant toothpaste experiment left learners visibly inspired and curious about the world of science.

This initiative not only provides material support but also aims to ignite a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects among young learners, encouraging them to pursue careers in these critical fields.
The Komatsu Foundation Trust’s continued investment in education highlights its commitment to community development and youth empowerment. Both NRF-SAASTA and the Trust have expressed enthusiasm about expanding their partnership to reach even more schools and learners in future.