Gauteng MEC for education Matome Chiloane has launched another school of specialisation which will focus on mining.
The Phahama Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation in Mohlakeng, Randfontein was launched this week with the department saying it is moving beyond the normal status quo of ordinary public schools.
Chiloane said the department is launching schools that will be a beacon in communities and produce learners who are highly skilled, ready to work, ready to enroll at institutions of higher learning or start their own businesses.
“We are doing our best to prepare learners for the jobs of the future, jobs that may not exist currently, and we are achieving this through schools of specialisation,” said Chiloane.
“We are pushing for learners to have skills that are linked to the economy in the proximity of their school.
“Phahama Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation with a focus on mining is in the western economic corridor where the industries focus on mining, archaeology, logistics, tourism and manufacturing.”
The department added that learners at Phahama have proven their diligence in resolving challenges in mining by developing a number of innovative solutions.
“As early as grade 9, learners have invented a network time protocol server which enables GPS signals and accurate time to be accessed while underground.
“Learners have also developed an app that detects whether miners have their safety helmets on or not.
“They have created models of machinery that can advance the process of mining and have displayed a deep understanding of the operations within the sector.”
Chiloane said the department is thrilled by this display of knowledge and insight of a sector that was previously not taught in the basic education curriculum.
“We anticipate advanced educational outcomes we will achieve through schools of specialisation and look forward to launching many more such schools,” he added.
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