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ROMPCO’S MOBILE SCIENCE LAB AND VACATION CAMPS INSPIRE FUTURE STEM LEADERS
In Mpumalanga’s Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality, the Republic of Mozambique Pipeline Investments Company (ROMPCO) is transforming education for students in the Badplaas community. Through its mobile science laboratory and vacation camps, ROMPCO provides hands-on learning experiences, inspiring students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
For many students in underprivileged areas, science is often taught as theory rather than through practical experience. ROMPCO’s mobile science lab changes this by bringing fully equipped, interactive science experiments directly to local schools. “Our mobile laboratory has significantly increased student engagement in science,” says Chuma Mxo, ROMPCO’s Branding, Communications & CSI Manager. “By offering practical exposure, we’re making science more accessible and enjoyable.”
The impact is evident, with a notable increase in student participation in STEM subjects. Zwelakhe Madonsela from Osizweni Science Centre explains that from 2020 to 2023, participation in science has grown significantly, with one learner winning an SVP Award as the top achiever in 2022. “This shows the mobile lab’s role in transforming education,” Madonsela adds.
ROMPCO’s mobile science lab now serves over 1,400 learners across ten secondary schools, providing hands-on experiences in subjects like physical science, chemistry, and mathematics. Mrs. QD Segage, Head of Department for Commercial Subjects, highlights the lab’s value: “It moves between schools, allowing science teachers to conduct practicals, improving understanding and building confidence in these critical subjects.”
By combining mobile labs with intensive vacation camps, we’re making science tangible for learners while investing in communities - inspiring future innovators where it matters most.”- Chuma Mxo, ROMPCO Branding, Communications & CSI Manager
ROMPCO’s vacation camps complement the mobile lab by offering students an opportunity for intensive learning during school holidays. Held at Queen’s River Resort, these five-day camps offer extra tuition and motivational talks. “We bring together 215 learners from ten schools for each camp, guided by top educators,” says Professor Rufus Wesi, General Manager at Osizweni Science Centre. “These camps provide both academic support and inspiration.”
ROMPCO’s commitment to education underscores the power of corporate social investment. By collaborating with local schools and educators, ROMPCO is not only improving academic performance but also fostering future STEM leaders. “The private sector has a vital role to play in promoting a culture of learning,” says Mxo. “By working with schools, we can inspire curiosity and equip students with the knowledge they need to thrive in a technology-driven world.”
ROMPCO’s initiatives are a call to other businesses to invest in education, helping empower communities and contribute to a brighter future for South Africa’s youth. “The next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators starts in today’s classrooms,” concludes Mxo.
ROMPCO Contact: Tel: +27 11 523 3600
Email: info@rompco.co.za | Website: www.rompco.co.za
Address: 129 Rivonia Road, The MARC, Tower 1, 7th Floor, Sandton, 2196
