The Vuwani Science Resource Centre, under the auspices of the University of Venda, received a shot in the arm after Nissan SA made available R1,3 million for the enhancement of science and maths.

More learners from schools in the rural Vuwani area will benefit from the donation, as some of the funds are earmarked for the establishment of a mobile science laboratory to reach the many learners who do not have the resources to reach the centre. The donation was officially handed over to the outgoing acting vice-chancellor, Dr Jim Leatt, during the last session of the winter graduation at the university´s auditorium last week.

The donation will be channeled into enhancing the provision of maths and science programmes, which the university offers to schools in the surrounding communities through the Vuwani Science Resource Centre.

The centre was opened in 2000 as a partnership between the Zenex Foundation and the Department of Science and Technology and is located some 50 km from Univen’s main campus. The centre has four well-equipped laboratories. Amongst its aims are to expose the disadvantaged rural learners to the potential of the application of maths and science in their future studies and in the workplace, building knowledge and expertise in the use of science and technology and empowering neighbouring rural communities that lack those facilities.

Speaking during the handover, Nissan SA´s General Manager of Group Corporate Affairs and Communication, Ms Pat Senne, said it was their company´s duty to uplift the skills base in maths and science, not for the benefit of the automotive industry only, but for the country as a whole. "We are very delighted that our donation will enhance the existing maths and science programme at the centre, which will in turn enhance the quality of both university entrants and graduates," she said.

Dr Leatt said the previous dispensation had left a legacy that many disadvantaged learners, especially in the rural areas, were not equipped with proficiency in maths and science subjects which are necessary for entry into a number of university courses. "Not only does this affect job opportunities negatively, but also impacts on the South African economy, which is already faced with a skills shortage," he said.

The centre´s director, Prof Sankaran, was over the moon. "I cannot describe how I feel. We are very excited and we will make the most of this generous gesture," he said.

Nissan SA has already made its presence felt in the Limpopo Province through a number of corporate social investment initiatives, especially in education, which include the Adbag Campaign which provides schools with bags made from recycled billboard material to more than 4 000 rural learners in the province and the donation of four engines to four FET Colleges in the province to help students in mechanics.