Engen demonstrated its ongoing support for early learning education by once again supporting the Mark Headbush Foundation’s (MHF) Nelson Mandela Bay Mayoral Charity Golf Day held at the prestigious Port Elizabeth Golf Club on October 25th.
Over the years, Engen has made significant contributions to early childhood education, working alongside the MHF to address pressing educational needs in the community.
MHF, which was hosting its 18th annual Nelson Mandela Bay Mayoral Charity Golf Day, thanked Engen for their support over the past ten years.
“We are extremely grateful to Engen for their support, which has enabled us to make impactful investments in the lives of children in their early education years. Together with Engen and other corporate partners, we have raised over R5 million to improve early childhood education for underprivileged children in the Nelson Mandela Bay area,” commented MHF trustee, Mark Headbush.
This year’s event was further testament to Engen’s commitment to sustainability and education, reinforcing its mission to be Africa’s leading and most respected energy company.
Engen aligns its initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, aimed at providing inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
Proceeds from the 2024 Nelson Mandela Bay Mayoral Charity Golf Day will directly support the enhancement of learning environments, addressing critical needs such as infrastructure improvements in schools, access to educational materials, and technology resources. The aim is to bridge the digital learning divide and ensure that all children have the opportunity to thrive.
“As a brand committed to enriching lives, we are honoured to renew our partnership with the MHF,” said Olwethu Mdabula, Engen’s CSI Manager. “By supporting early childhood development, we strive to tackle the challenges that put the future of many children at risk.”
Engen’s long-standing support for education is exemplified by its flagship Engen Maths and Science School (EMSS) programme, which has been transforming lives for over 35 years. The 2023 EMSS matric class achieved an impressive 97% overall pass rate, with 77% qualifying for bachelor studies, reflecting the programme’s profound impact on underprivileged learners across its ten centres nationwide.
In 2023, Engen invested R41 million in learnerships and bursaries, along with R34 million in various social initiatives.
“Our strategic investments in education aim to uplift underprivileged communities and cultivate a talented pool of graduates,” added Mdabula. “The Engen Maths and Science Saturday Schools are pivotal in our efforts to create a more vibrant and skilled workforce.”