As part of the #GrowingASweet future initiative; Tongaat Hulett Amatikulu Mill engaged with learners of Isinyabusi Technical school on the 12th of August 2022 to guide them on reimagining how education can shape their future and bring to light the world of opportunities within the agricultural and sugar industries.
This initiative began from our resolute commitment to continuing the spirit of generosity even after Mandela Day and in our pledge to give back to our communities. Our mill is working in partnership with sugarcane farmers under the Mandeni and uMlalazi local municipalities, while Isinyabusi Technical School is one of the schools under the Macambini traditional leadership structure. The school was established 126 years ago, it has 38 educators and is investing in the future of about 1 162 learners.
Schools like Isinyabusi Technical School, which lie in communities where Tongaat Hulett operates, continue to be affected by a wide range of challenges such as a lack of educational resources and overcrowding due to a shortage of sufficient classrooms. The majority of the learners also come from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This reality affects the learners’ general outlook about the future and confidence in the role of education in opening doors to a better future. The Amatikulu Mill General Manager, Mfundo Sithole, together with his team and the Isinyabusi Technical School Management teams, organised a “Mandela Day” to motivate learners to get good grades and share information about the various career opportunities available within the mill.
It was a fun and informative day which involved presentations from mill management, including individuals who are part of the Engineering, Human Resources, Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) and Finance Business units.
On the day, Mr Shozi, the school’s current principal, said that the school continues to be proud of the results and the resilience of learners. He was also particularly pleased with the Amatikulu Mill Management’s commitment to education. He also noted how Tongaat Hulett is the main employer within the community and all traditional leadership councils are reliant on them for a wide range of support. He looks forward to a long and fruitful working relationship with us and vice versa.
