COMMUNITY NEWS

Esri South Africa Gives Back

Education is vital to growing our society and economy and as such, Esri South Africa is actively involved with various education projects to promote capacity building within the country’s underprivileged regions.

In 2012 Esri South Africa awarded four Grade 10 school learners from previously disadvantaged communities with the opportunity to have their school fees covered for the remainder of their high school careers. Port Shepstone Secondary School in the Ugu Municipal District, KwaZulu Natal was identified as the best suited institution for an initiative of this nature.

Project leader Maxwell Ncwane from Esri South Africa explained that within the district a number of learners do not have the means to properly complete their high school education due to financial constraints. For this reason, it was the primary goal of Esri South Africa to identify 4 deserving underprivileged learners whom Esri South Africa could assist. Learners were selected on the basis of their need for such assistance, as well as their academic promise. In addition to covering their school fees, it was decided to also cover basic living expenses to ensure the learners were able to concentrate on their studies.

Fast forward a few years and Esri South Africa are delighted to report back that one of the learners, Dlelani Mdunge matriculated and is now in his first year at the University of KwaZulu Natal. Throughout his Grade 10, 11 and 12 years at school, Dlelani proved to be one of the top Geography students.
Dlelani has chosen to complete a Bachelor of Social Sciences, Geography and Environmental Management degree. In addition to sponsoring his studies, Esri South Africa is supporting the young learner with all the necessary books and materials to ensure that he continues with his academic achievement. Esri South Africa will continue to guide and assist him as he progresses with his studies to make sure he has the best possible support.

“Esri South Africa are excited to be able to give back to the community at a grassroots level where we can make a difference”, Patrick McKivergan, Managing Director of Esri South Africa.