To wrap up an eventful and successful Youth Month 2024, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega), in collaboration with the University of Limpopo (UL), facilitated an immersive learning programme for students at the 9003-hectare Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), in Gqeberha, this week, says Dr. Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega’s Head of Marketing, Brand and Communication.
The main objective of the educational progamme and visit, which included a comprehensive presentation and tour focused on sustainability and environmental management within the Coega SEZ, was to bridge the gap between the students’ theoretical understanding and their real-world experience of environmental management and sustainable development. The visit also offered the students an opportunity to network with seasoned professionals in their fields of interest.
The 39 students, ranging from undergraduate and postgraduate levels, were exposed to health and safety management, water quality management, waste management, open space management, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, and the execution of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs). In addition, the visit comprised an overview of the Coega SEZ’s operations, along with a detailed explanation of the services offered by the Sustainability Business Unit (SBU), which incorporates those related to quality management and the organisation’s climate change response.
Mr. Simphiwe Silwana, Coega’s Sustainability Manager, expressed that Coega is always open to sharing invaluable insights and best practice Case Studies with students who are interested in effective sustainable development.
“These students travelled to the Coega SEZ to deepen their understanding of environmental management. They are future professionals who will play vital roles in addressing the environmental issues they confront when they return to Limpopo,” said Silwana.
Coega empowers students to thrive in a dynamic world, by providing unparalleled opportunities to expand students’ knowledge and enabling them to make informed career choices.
UL Environmental Sciences student, Hlahla Clement (20), shared his perspective on the visit: “This experience has taken me to places I will need to visit once I graduate. I learnt a lot about Geographic Information Systems technology and now I know that I would like to pursue my Masters in Geographic Information Systems technology.”
UL Lecturers in Geography and Environmental Studies, Mr. Marks Sebaiwa and Frederick Mashao agreed that the visit exceeded expectations and fulfilled the intended purpose.
“This experience proved highly beneficial for our institution and our students, offering them valuable exposure. I am particularly pleased with the participation of our students and the practical teachings by young professionals at Coega,” said Sebaiwa.
Coega’s unwavering dedication to learning and sustainable development ensures that the next generation of changemakers are well-prepared and inspired to shape a better future for generations to come, concludes Dr. Vilakazi.
