KARIEGA – Coinciding with the celebrations of its 75th anniversary in South Africa, Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has partnered with the LEAP institute to open a school in KwaNobuhle.

The LEAP 9 Science and Mathematics School was officially opened on 31 August, marking a new step in efforts to improve Science and Mathematics education in KwaNobuhle and surrounding areas.

Attending the event was Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube, Nelson Mandela Bay Mayor Babalwa Lobishe, Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume, and Global Volkswagen brand CEO Thomas Schäfer.

Before its refurbishment and reopening, the school had been abandoned and in poor condition for several years. It currently has learners in Grades 1, 2 and 8, with classes expected to expand gradually until the school is fully operational by 2034, following a planned multi-million-rand investment in its infrastructure and operations.

This school forms part of a cradle-to-career strategy for Volkswagen. Through various education-related strategic initiatives such as Ikhwezi Lomso Early Childhood Development Centre, the Kutlwanong Maths Centre and the LoveLife Youth Centre, VWGA plays an active role in the development of young people in and around Kariega.

“The LEAP 9 Science and Mathematics School aims to provide learners with quality education, specifically in science and mathematics which are our focus subjects in education. These subjects are the foundation for growth, for innovation and for empowerment,” said Nonkqubela Maliza, VWGA’s Director of Corporate and Government Affairs.

The LEAP Institute is an education-focused non-governmental organisation with more than 21 years of experience in science and mathematics education, providing young people with the necessary skills to pursue further studies in meaningful careers.

“The LEAP Institute has an excellent record of strengthening science and maths education, which made them the fitting partner when it came to opening a primary and high school in KwaNobuhle, where many of our employees live,” added Maliza.

VWGA Chairperson and Managing Director, Martina Biene, also attended the opening of the school. She highlighted the importance of the company’s relationship with the communities surrounding its Kariega plant. “One of our defining traits as a company is that we are a responsible corporate citizen. A responsible corporate citizen is a company that is as much a part of the community as your neighbours,” she said.

Biene said the partnership with LEAP represents the start of a new chapter for VWGA and the KwaNobuhle community. “As a responsible corporate citizen, an industry leader and as a good neighbour, Volkswagen has walked far with the people of Kariega and surrounding areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro. As we start down a new road with LEAP and the community of KwaNobuhle, I am excited to see the impact that lies ahead, and the successful futures this partnership will shape for the youth of KwaNobuhle.”