(Virtual Showroom) ABB South Africa, in collaboration with EduFeArn, has launched a pioneering mathematics intervention at Minerva Secondary School in Alexandra. This initiative, which commenced in January 2024, is designed to enhance the mathematical and scientific understanding of Grade 8 to 12 learners, equipping them with the skills necessary for academic success and future careers in STEM fields.

To mark this significant contribution to education, ABB and EduFeArn hosted a special event to officially hand over R600 000 worth of mathematics dictionaries to Minerva Secondary School. This event took place on 18 March in Alexandra and highlighted the importance of investing in education and empowering the next generation of learners.

ABB South Africa Corporate Social Responsibility Manager Cynthia Khoali expressed pride in the partnership with the EduFeArn Foundation. “It is a long-term commitment to support South African learners, particularly in mathematics, a subject that serves as a gateway to numerous opportunities in today’s world.” She stressed that this initiative is not merely about providing resources but about creating an environment where learners can thrive academically and build the confidence they need to excel in their studies.

The provision of the dictionaries, alongside specialised educator training, is aimed at making a tangible difference in the classroom. By equipping both students and teachers with essential tools, ABB and EduFeArn are ensuring that educational gaps are bridged, and that learners in underserved communities are given the knowledge and skills they need to shape their futures. Ongoing monitoring of each learner’s progress is a key aspect of the initiative, ensuring that the support provided remains relevant and effective.

Kholisile Khumalo, Business Development Manager at EduFeArn, highlighted the challenges South African learners face due to language barriers in mathematics and physical science. “Many students must write exams in English, despite it not being their first language, and often struggle to interpret complex terms correctly,” he highlights.

EduFeArn’s CAPS-aligned mathematics and physical sciences picture dictionaries have been specifically designed to address this issue. CAPS stands for Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement, the official curriculum framework used in South African schools. It provides detailed guidelines on what students should learn in each subject and grade level.

The dictionaries are educational resources designed to help students understand key concepts in these critical subjects through visual aids. They include definitions, explanations, and illustrations to make complex topics more accessible, especially for learners who benefit from visual learning. “These resources are intended to improve comprehension, retention, and overall academic performance,” adds Khumalo.

This initiative forms part of ABB’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility strategy, which is dedicated to making a meaningful, lasting impact in the communities where the company operates. Through its partnership with EduFeArn, ABB is reinforcing its commitment to education and community development, empowering learners with the tools they need to succeed in their studies and future careers.