Kolomela’s GM Matric Incentive Improves Matric Outcomes

In 2019, Kumba Iron Ore’s Kolomela mine, against the backdrop of the poor status of education in theTsantsabane municipal area, launched the Kolomela GM Matric Incentive. From the onset, the incentive was designed to improve the matric pass rate, to increase the number of learners qualifying for bursaries and ultimately enhance employment.

Community schools welcomed the intervention and early indicators demonstrate positive impact as we observe an overall improvement from participating schools. Bursary uptake has also increased as we received a total of 66 bursary applications in 2022 from the three local high schools compared to only 34 from the 2021 class.To reward special performers in the matric 2022 school year, Kolomela organised an auspicious event in the NG Church Hall. Furthermore, the occasion was used to award various bursaries to new students who will start their postschool studies at different institutions of higher learning.

Education is seen as a tool to eliminate poverty in community

“This initiative is in line with our Sustainable Mining Plan, which aims to build thriving communities through sustained efforts to improve livelihoods, health, and education.To create vibrant communities, we should keep encouraging our local communities to stay focused and goal driven so that they can achieve their dreams which will help them build a better future. This will enable us to contribute positively by decreasing the unemployment rate in Tsantsabane community,” says Tebogo Mushi – Newly appointed General Manager for Kolomela mine. “Our commitment to education is unrivalled.To get our communities out of poverty, the first step is to invest in education.”

Former beneficiaries applaud Kolomela’s bursary scheme

Several former beneficiaries attended the event and lauded the support given to them by the mine. In her speech, Jocelyn Basie, a BCom graduate, whose studies was funded by Kolomela, praised the mines bursary scheme. “Using this chance, I'd like to express my gratitude to

Kolomela for helping to pay for my education. In 2020, I was awarded the bursary, and ever since, I have been supported financially for my academic endeavors. I am really honored to have been selected as the recipient of this scholarship and to have had the chance Kolomela provided for me to advance my education.” Basie, a proud former learner at Blinkklip High School, is currently pursuing her second degree, majoring in Environmental Geology

Recognition of education excellence

The scheme rewards top performing host community schools and learners with cash incentives which are awarded annually in January at a gala event. Receiving a whopping cash prize of R100,000 for the best performing school in the Tsantsabane municipal area, for the second time, was Postmasburg High school. Karikamma High School from Griekwastad came second and won a cash incentive of R75,000 with Blinkklip High School in a well deserving third slot taking back R50,000.Additionally, Postmasburg High School was commended for a 100 % pass rate in STEM subjects and clinched an extra R15,000 price for this feat.

Fish

KOMPETISIE Wenner!!

Recent Rains in Kgalagadi Relief For Animals Alike

The KgalagadiTranfrontier Park never dissapoints, here are two Black-Backed Jakals enjoying some fresh rain water. Be sure to book at Kgalagadi Lodge for the ultimate experience.