VW donates robots to Kariega school

Daniel Pienaar Technical High School in Kariega typifies this transition to technology and the inclusion of automation and robotics. Supporting the school in its mission to meet 21^st century skills demand, Volkswagen Group Africa has donated a refurbished automation cell for learning purposes. It consists of two Kuka robots, two control panels, two pendants, one gripper and attachment, teaching equipment, safety fencing, basic safety and automation training and electrical drawings.

Bernd Schaberg, Head of Production Planning at VWGA, emphasised the need for careers in automation. “About 17 years ago, the VWGA Body Shop operated with about 30% automation; in 2024, this number has increased to 70%. An increase in automation in operations means an increase in the skills required to operate and maintain new equipment.”

Hyundai helps with library for school

The learners of Buhle Park Primary School in Germiston have received a brand-new library and resource centre as part of Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s corporate social investment programme. This is the 21st sponsorship of its kind undertaken by Hyundai Automotive SA in partnership with Hyundai Motor Company in South Korea and the DP World and Motus Community Trust.

An elated Rebecca Mabona, principal of Buhle Park Primary, describes the gift of the library as a life-changing event, for the Buhle Park Primary learners as well as the community that serves as the catchment area for the school. As part of the sponsorship, the library, which has about 10 000 books, is staffed by two librarians whose salaries are paid by Hyundai and the DP World and Motus Community Trust for a year. The full sponsorship is worth R1.62 million.

CEO spends day in wheelchair as part of challenge

In a gesture of solidarity and commitment to community welfare, Alex Taplin, CEO of TiAuto Investments, parent company of Tiger Wheel & Tyre, spent a day in a wheelchair as part of LITTLE EDEN’s CEO Wheelchair Challenge. This initiative aims to raise awareness of individuals who rely on mobility devices and to support LITTLE EDEN’s essential services.

LITTLE EDEN, a haven for individuals with profound intellectual disabilities, offers specialised care for its 300 residents who call it home. With financial constraints affecting many organisations in recent years, LITTLE EDEN looks to partnerships and community support to maintain its high standard of care. The CEO Wheelchair Challenge encourages business leaders to experience the daily life of those who depend on mobility aids and consider supporting the organisation either financially or through product contributions.

In response to this call for support, Tiger Wheel & Tyre, in collaboration with Continental Tyres, stepped forward to ensure the safety and reliability of LITTLE EDEN’s fleet. The company fitted 18 new Continental tyres to LITTLE EDEN vehicles.

Ford’s continued support for SSRC valuable

The Ford Wildlife Foundation (FWF) proudly supports Sea Search Research and Conservation (SSRC) NPC, a leading marine research organisation founded in 2014 by Dr Simon Elwen and Dr Tess Gridley. Through the invaluable assistance of the Ford Ranger provided by the FWF, Sea Search has made significant strides in marine research and conservation across Southern Africa.

Sea Search Research and Conservation specialises in high-quality, internationally recognised scientific research and student training in marine biology.

"Our mission is to provide crucial scientific insights that can inform conservation policies and practices," says Dr Elwen, co-founder of Sea Search. "The support from the Ford Wildlife Foundation and the reliability of the Ford Ranger have been pivotal in our research efforts."

The Ford Wildlife Foundation is committed to supporting organisations like Sea Search that work tirelessly to protect and preserve marine biodiversity," says Lynda du Plessis, manager of the Ford Wildlife Foundation.

ISUZU announces partnership with Rally to Read

ISUZU Motors South Africa (ISUZU) has announced its partnership with Rally to Read, an organisation committed to promoting literacy and education in South Africa. Results from the most recent Progress International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) showed that in 2021, 81% of grade 4 learners across all official languages could read for meaning.

Rally to Read, in partnership with sponsors across the public and private sector, deliver books, teaching aids and other much-needed resources to schools with the aim of helping to improve literacy levels. With R16 million raised, Rally to Read will fund 12 regional rallies in 2024 and one of those rallies is being done in partnership with ISUZU.

“At the core of our agenda is the primary focus on promoting literacy at grassroots level through providing teachers and learners access to quality resources and training,” says READ Project Manager, Sibhekaphi Sibanda. To ensure the sustainability of the project, extensive teacher literacy training and digital literacy training will be rolled out as part of the project.

TATA helps to put a smile on kids’ faces

Tata International reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Operation Smile South Africa (OSSA) during a gathering at its subsidiary, Tata Africa Holdings, in Sandton.

“Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is ingrained in our DNA and lies at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to integrating social and ethical principles at the very core of our business, thereby enhancing long-term stakeholder value and positively influencing the lives of all the people within the greater Tata International family, says Len Brand, Managing Director of Tata Africa Holdings.

Since 2006, Operation Smile has been instrumental in providing comprehensive cleft care in underserved regions in South Africa, addressing critical needs in rural areas where access to such care is limited. Operation Smile's priorities include expanding access to cleft care, reducing surgical backlogs, strengthening healthcare systems and leveraging volunteerism.