The Department of Education supported petrochemicals giant Sasol’s various initiatives to advance mathematics, science and technology in South Africa, Free State Education MEC Tate Makgoe said at the Sasol Techno X 2012 exhibition, in August.

“Sasol Techno X, the most acclaimed career guidance exhibition, which attracts schools and institutions from all walks of life, is one of these initiatives,” he added.

Now in its twelfth year, the event has developed into one of the premier exhibitions in South Africa and offers learners the opportunity to engage with universities and other industry stakeholders on course studies and bursary options.

The theme for the 2012 exhibition was centred on environmental awareness, Free State Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC Mamiki Qabathe noted at the opening.

“Sasol’s sponsorship of Techno X proves its commitment to investing in the future of South Africa’s children through education.

“It also proves Sasol’s commitment to the creation of sustainable partnerships that lead to community development [in its operational areas]. This also proves Sasol’s commitment to supporting the development of our society at all levels,” Qabathe stated.

“Innovation, technology and science are major components in the world’s economy as a whole and by providing learners with an avenue of opportunity, we are able to expand the skills base of South Africa in these dynamic fields,” Makgoe noted.

He emphasised that it is imperative for South Africa to increase the engineering and technical skills it produces each year.

“The engineering profession has, historically, contributed significantly to the development of South Africa and continues to contribute to the building of infrastructure, such as roads, hospitals, townships, dams and airports.”

However, Makgoe warned that South Africa was lagging behind in the number of competent engineers it produces, compared with its fellow Brics – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – and other developing countries.

“In South Africa, there is one engineer for [every] 3 166 citizens, whereas Brazil has one [engineer] for every 227 citizens and Malaysia one engineer for every 543 citizens.”

Makgoe noted that the inconsistent production of engineers in South Africa showed that the country is severely underengineered and needs to increase the number of its engineering and technical skills, as a matter of urgency.

He pointed out, however, that this could not be achieved without an improvement in the mathematical and science participation and pass rates at the primary and high school levels.