02 August 2022

AfriSam revamps Dikgatlong science lab

Submitted by: Duduzile Mphahlele
AfriSam revamps Dikgatlong science lab

Dikgatlong High School in the Northern Cape has been in existence for 23 years and has more than 600 learners. However, the school never had an operational science laboratory – until AfriSam stepped in.

The cement producer ensured this underprivileged school now has a fully functional science laboratory. This makes Dikgatlong the only high school of its kind in the area that can offer a properly equipped laboratory.

Hardie de Beer, General Manager at AfriSam, said: “AfriSam is very passionate about educational programmes as we view proper education as the backbone of a prosperous country. When we received a request from the school that it required assistance with a science laboratory, we saw an opportunity to contribute to making our children fall in love with science again.”

The lack of chemicals and equipment in the old laboratory made the teaching of subjects such as Physical Science and Life Science a tedious process.

 “To ensure we have a fully functioning facility, we supplied the required equipment and chemicals and also replaced the water system to the laboratory.

“To aid effective and efficient learning, AfriSam further supplied two laptops, installed two overhead projectors and the required screens.

“We also bought new desks and chairs, replacing the old double-combination desks which were not conducive for group discussions. As the safekeeping of the chemicals is key, a security gate was also fitted to the storeroom,” added De Beer.

To implement this project, AfriSam appointed a few local businesses to help with some of the renovations such as painting the laboratory rooms, fixing broken windows and installing stone guards on windows for enhanced security. AfriSam is delighted to have finally completed the project.

Vincent Moya, a Grade 12 learner at the school, said: “Having to try and imagine all the chemical reactions mentioned in the textbook was difficult. Now that we have a science lab, it will make things much easier.”

Kamogelo Raadt, a Grade 11 learner at the school, said: “My ambition is to go to medical school after matric. Having the science lab is very exciting because it will help me to improve my marks for a university admission.”

Peter Malefane, head of the science and maths department at Dikgatlong, said that having the proper equipment and chemicals for the laboratory now means that the school’s pass rate will increase dramatically. This will lead to a higher number of new learner admissions who will want to attend the school.

“We are very grateful to AfriSam for giving our learners the opportunity to excel in science. Both the teachers and members of the school governing body are very excited about it. Thank you, AfriSam,” said Malefane.

Published in Science and Education

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