In June 2023, Steinmüller Africa joined Eskom, Seriti, GE and Exxaro in the handover of the Bonginhlanhla Primary School building in Thubelihle, a township in Kriel, Mpumalanga. Steinmüller Africa employees who work at the Kriel Power Station recognised the need for education within the community and took the initiative to promote access to education for the children. Steinmüller Africa’s contribution to the project involved the design of the classrooms for the school.
Attending the opening of the facility by the Mpumalanga Department of Education was one of the three Directors of the company Moso Bolofo, together with Project Manager, Tshephisho Nailana and other Steinmüller Africa employees. “The joy that was demonstrated by the children and teachers at getting a proper school cannot be explained. There was singing, dancing, and appreciation for the collaborative companies,” said Bolofo. The importance of education is captured in a quote by Nelson Mandela: “It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that the son of a mine worker can become the head of the mine, and that a child of farm workers can become the president of a great nation”.
Surrounding power stations and coal mines have consistently demonstrated their commitment by providing ongoing donations for the school, which was once a shack structure. The collective efforts of Steinmüller Africa and the other partnering companies made it possible for the school to have a formal structure. The contribution stemming from the partnership included the design of the school and the donation of the building materials, which has nurtured an environment conducive to the learning and personal growth of children.
Steinmüller Africa has been involved with Bonginhlanhla School since 1993. Former pupils of the school, now in their 40s and 30s, serve as a testament to the transformative power of education.
Enquiries: Alison Willemse
HR Manager
Steinmüller Africa
Cell: +27 11 806 3239
Email: alison.willemse@bilfinger.com
Website: www.steinmuller.bilfinger.com
