This week, South Africa’s Matric Class of 2024, including 94 learners from the Coega Maths and Science Programme (MSP), began their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. The Coega Development Corporation (COEGA) extends best wishes to all matriculants and anticipates positive results for this year’s cohort of MSP learners.
Established in 2013, the Coega MSP is a catalytic Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiative designed to help matriculants improve their Grade 12 Mathematics and Physical Science results. For the past 10 years, the programme has offered free classes to successful applicants, to improve their chances of university admission to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
Mr. Eldon September, Coega MSP Facilitator, shared his message of support for the Class of 2024 who are scheduled to write their examinations in early November 2024.
“As you embark on your final exams, remember that your hard work and dedication throughout the year have prepared you well. Stay focused, believe in yourselves, and draw strength from the knowledge and skills you have acquired through the programme. We are confident in your abilities and wish you all the best as you strive for academic excellence.
Our mission is rooted in the belief that education is a powerful catalyst for unlocking a world of opportunities. As facilitators, we strive to not only impart knowledge but to also inspire and motivate learners, guiding them towards a future where their aspirations are within reach,” said Mr. September.
The Coega MSP aims to bridge the gap between the supply and demand of critical but scarce STEM skills. By transforming young lives and providing hope to underprivileged learners, the programme contributes to enhancing academic achievement in line with Coega’s vision to be a leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development.
Current MSP learner, Hlumelo Fana (19) from Motherwell, expressed his feelings about his final exams, and his hopes for the future.
“I have a sense of calmness that has come from the progress I have made this year due to being a Coega Maths and Science Programme student, but I do have a bit of anxiety, which is normal, I guess. I am preparing to get distinctions for both subjects, as I achieved 96% for Mathematics and 90% for Physics in September. I am hoping to achieve these remarkable results even in my final exams, which seems realistic because of the knowledge and skills that I have learned throughout the year.
I have received so much support from the facilitators, not only academically but with hope and a fresh perspective on these two crucial subjects. I want to become a neurologist, and I would have to study medicine next year at Nelson Mandela University, ” he said. Coega MSP alumnus, Limpho Fadane (19), who successfully completed the Programme last year, shared words of encouragement with current MSP learners.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt best wishes to the Matric Class of 2024. Remember, it is possible to achieve great things with hard work and determination. Work hard, don’t lose hope, and this is a better opportunity to give it your all and strive for great results. I joined the Coega Maths and Science Programme with low marks, but through dedication and perseverance, I secured 86% in Mathematics and 77% in Physical Science. I am now pursuing Electronics Engineering at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.”
Coega remains steadfast in its dedication to nurturing the new generation of STEM professionals who will contribute to the growth and development of South Africa. To date, the Coega MSP has nurtured over 1000 future innovators and fostered educational excellence in STEM fields.
“Through our unwavering commitment and efforts, we are confident that we will once again achieve a remarkable 100% pass rate for the third consecutive year. This exceptional achievement underscores the exceptional outcomes of our Maths and Science Programme.
We wish the Matric Class of 2024 all the best in securing their desired tertiary courses and paving the way for successful careers,” concluded Mr. September.
