The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Community Engagement recently hosted the Mahlabathini Schools Engagement Programme (MSEP) Reflection, Evaluation, and Planning (REP) Workshop. The workshop brought together social partners including Mahlabathini CMC, the Phakamile Mazibuko Foundation, and also staff from DUT’s Faculty of Health Sciences, Chemistry Department under the Faculty of Applied Sciences, and Career Resource Unit to reflect on the programme’s impact and discuss plans for the upcoming year.

The MSEP aims to enhance access to quality education and support curriculum delivery for schools within the Mahlabathini Circuit. By focusing on addressing challenges faced by both learners and educators, particularly in the sciences, the programme offers practical workshops and career guidance for Grade 12 learners. Its goal is to build capacity among both learners and teachers to improve overall educational outcomes.

During the REP workshop, key topics were addressed, including the growing demand for facilitators due to the expanding number of schools involved and the ongoing challenge of budget constraints. However, the team also highlighted the programme’s strengths, such as providing learners in rural areas with practical learning opportunities. These hands-on experiences are valuable not only for the learners but also for staff and volunteer students, who gain experience and enhance their community engagement profiles.

Dr Siyabonga Ndlela, a lecturer from the DUT Chemistry Department, spoke about the broader impact of the programme, stating, “The programme benefits the staff with career development and enhancing curriculum, it also helps university students become adaptive graduates as they engage with issues affecting communities.”

Ms Xoliswa Cele, the Chief Education Specialist from the Mahlabathini CMC, shared the positive outcomes of the programme on local schools, specifically its effect on matriculation results over the past four years. She emphasized how the MSEP has made a significant impact on learners in the Mahlabathini region, stating, “The programme has not only enhanced academic performance but has also inspired greater motivation among learners resulting in improved matriculation outcomes year after year.”

Singing praises to the programme was Ms Phakamile Mazibuko, Director of the Phakamile Mazibuko Foundation, who commended the programme for the positive impact it has had on the matric learner pass rate. She noted, “The programme is reaching its goal, as evidenced by the improved matric pass rate and the post-school opportunities it is offering the learners.” Evident to the statement is the top achiever matric learner from the Mahlabathini District, who is part of the Mahlabathini Schools Engagement Programme, and has enrolled at DUT, further showcasing the tangible success of the programme in providing meaningful educational pathways for its participants.

Looking forward to 2025, the team expressed optimism for the year ahead, with a focus on improving the programme’s reach and impact. The DUT team and its social partners are already planning the upcoming Science Week and Career Week, which will further engage learners and help them explore potential career paths.

The REP workshop was an important step in ensuring continued growth and success for the Mahlabathini Schools Engagement Programme, providing valuable insights for all involved in supporting the future of education in the region.

Pictured: DUT Team with social partners Ms Xoliswa Cele and Ms Phakamile Mazibuko.

Phumeza Msongelwa