The Northern Cape's 2024 matric top achiever, Kutlo Motlhoioa from Kimberley Technical High School, says, "From a young age I have always wanted to make it onto the stage for academic excellence. Grateful to my parents for their support and for pushing me to be the best I can be. Striking a balance between academics and extramural activities also helped me to stay focused and succeed in reaching my goal."

Motlhoioa will be studying medicine at the University of Cape Town, says Kumba Iron Ore.

Providing details on Kumba's financial package to the learners, Northern Cape Hub Corporate Affairs Manager at Kumba Iron Ore, Adriana Slambert, outlines the importance of supporting education in the province. "The role that education plays regarding the development of young people is key to unlocking their potential," Slambert says.

"Seeing the Northern Cape matric pass rate climb from 75.8% in 2023 to 84.2% in 2024, is a testament to the dedication required to achieve academic excellence by both the learners and the Department of Basic Education," adds Slambert.

As an organisation that values the importance of education, this contribution reflects Anglo American's Sustainable Mine Plan, which focuses on education as one of its strategic pillars and a vehicle needed to build thriving communities, says Kumba Iron Ore. 

"Through our various education initiatives in the form of incentives schemes, bursaries, Professional in Training programs and infrastructure development, we will continue to personify our purpose of reimagining mining to improve people’s lives," Slambert says.

In addition to the contribution made to the Northern Cape top 20, through the Anglo American South Africa (AASA) Education Program, Kumba Iron Ore has invested over R140-million to bolster education in its host communities over the last three years, Kumba Iron Ore says.

Responding to Kumba Iron Ore's contribution to local education, Northern Cape MEC for Education, Abraham Vosloo, shares the value of partnering with Kumba Iron Ore. "Kumba has a track record of being committed to changing the social conditions of our people, education is one but one sector that they focus on," Vosloo says.

"We have the opportunity to engage with Kumba's executive team throughout the year and align on priorities as we serve the same communities.  We appreciate Kumba Iron Ore’s donation to the students and their commitment to education," concludes Vosloo. 

For more information, visit www.angloamericankumba.com. You can also follow Anglo American on LinkedIn, Facebook, or on X.

*Image courtesy of contributor