South Africa is a country with a rich history and a diverse population, but it is also facing a number of challenges when it comes to education. One of the most pressing issues is the poor performance of students in Maths and Science, which has a significant impact on the country’s ability to produce the technical graduates that are so essential for the growth and development of the built environment. To help address this problem, a non-profit organization, Go for Gold, has been established to give Maths and Science tuition and career-building opportunity to students who want to become technical graduates. Beneficiaries on the programme come from areas with limited resources and from schools challenged with poor Maths and Science outcomes.
Go for Gold is dedicated to helping students overcome the challenges they face in Maths and Science and to provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. The organization has recruited over 100 students in 2023 and provides students with access to experienced teachers and mentors who are knowledgeable in these subjects in Grade 10, 11 and 12. The programme also offers a range of resources, materials, and catalysed connection with technical industries through Go for Gold partner companies, to help them learn more about the industry and inspire passion for varied technical professions used in industry.
Go for Gold’s efforts continue to succeed as they have just celebrated another year of success helping some of South Africa’s most deserving youth achieve Bachelor Passes. Once again, 93% of Grade 12 students at Go for Gold achieved Bachelor Passes at the end of 2022, celebrating this success for three consecutive years despite the adverse effects of COVID-19 on academic schedules.
Go for Gold epitomizes the efficacy of public-private partnerships where all stakeholders enjoy the win-win conclusions. The South African built environment, including the construction and manufacturing industries, stands to benefit greatly from non-profits like Go for Gold. These industries require a steady stream of skilled technical graduates to secure their future human capital and meet the demands of an ever-growing market. By investing in Maths and Science education, companies can help ensure that there is a steady supply of well-educated and highly skilled individuals to meet their needs.
Companies who partner with Go for Gold benefit from being seen as socially responsible and committed to education transformation, which provides a competitive advantage. Partnership opportunities include financial support, resources, and internships for students. These partnerships help invest in future human capital, support the built environment, and create a more equitable and inclusive society.
In conclusion, the non-profit organization, Go for Gold, is making a significant contribution to addressing one of the most pressing educational challenges in South Africa. By providing Maths and Science tuition to students who want to become technical graduates, Go for Gold is helping to build a better future for the South African built environment and the country as a whole. The organization is inviting more companies to join the fold and become a part of this transformative effort.
