The KwaNobuhle Maths and Science Centre was officially opened recently, marking a significant milestone in the pursuit of quality education in the Nelson Mandela Bay region.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Chief Whip, Councillor Wandisile Jikeka, and Member of the Mayoral Committee for Roads and Transport, Councillor Yolisa Pali-Jongilanga.
The state-of-the-art facility aims to dramatically improve access to high-level mathematics and science education for learners in the area, addressing critical skills gaps that have long hampered development in the region.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Volkswagen Group Africa’s Director of Corporate and Government Affairs, Nonkqubela Maliza, emphasised the company’s unwavering commitment to addressing societal challenges through meaningful community partnerships.
“Wherever you find Volkswagen – whether in Brazil, China, Mexico, or South Africa – you’ll find some form of collaboration with communities. We believe the most powerful way to achieve meaningful change is through education and youth development,” said Maliza.
She highlighted the interconnected challenges facing the community, including a shortage of critical and technical skills, high youth unemployment, poor service delivery, poverty, and slow economic growth, all of which require urgent and sustainable solutions.
The centre represents a strategic intervention aimed at breaking what Maliza described as a “vicious cycle” of underdevelopment.
“High-quality maths and science education is one of the most effective tools to break this vicious cycle. These subjects provide the foundation for innovation, problem-solving, and the critical skills needed for employment and economic development,” she explained.
“With the launch of this centre, we are equipping young people with a powerful, transformational tool. This is more than just a building – it is an investment in the future of our youth and our communities,” Maliza added.
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Chief Whip, Councillor Wandisile Jikeka, delivered a compelling speech highlighting the strategic partnership with Kutlwanong and Volkswagen.
“With Kutlwanong and VW, we are fortunate to have two experienced and capable partners supporting us in Mathematics and Physical Science. These critical subjects equip learners with essential skills in creative thinking, problem-solving, and analytical thinking,” he stated.
Councillor Jikeka emphasised the relevance of these subjects in today’s rapidly evolving job market, noting that “these skills are foundational.
“A learner excelling in mathematics and science is already developing the abilities needed to solve real-world problems. Thank you to VW and Kutlwanong for your invaluable contribution. Best of luck with this exciting initiative in community development and corporate social investment.”
In his address, Deputy Director-General for Curriculum, Raymond Tywakadi, spoke directly to the learners with a message about purpose and responsibility. He urged them to see the day not merely as an event, but as a gift and a milestone in their lives.
“Don’t look left or right to compare, stay focused, stay in your lane, and use what you’ve been given,” said Tywakadi.
He emphasised that their presence was no accident – it was a sign of potential and opportunity. The Deputy Director-General challenged the learners to take full responsibility for their journeys, noting that without personal effort, the support of others would be in vain.
The facility is expected to serve hundreds of learners annually, offering advanced re-sources, qualified educators, and a conducive learning environment specifically designed to nurture talent in mathematics and science – subjects that form the backbone of technologi-cal innovation and economic advancement.
Local education officials have welcomed the initiative as a game-changer for the area, where access to quality STEM education has historically been limited. The centre is expected to play a crucial role in preparing the next generation for careers in engineering, technology, healthcare, and other fields requiring strong foundations in mathematics and science.
The Eastern Cape Department of Education District Director, Ernest Gorgonzola, concluded the programme with a heartfelt vote of thanks. “It is truly an honour and a pleasure for me to stand here today and offer a heartfelt vote of thanks. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the learners, the district, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, Kutlwanong, and last but certainly not least, Volkswagen Group Africa,” he stated.
