Over 24 400 visitors attend Sasol Techno X 2013

Date

27 August, 2013

The 13^th annual Sasol Techno X saw over 24 400 visitors from across the country descend on the Boiketlong Sport Centre in Sasolburg. The week-long event kicked off from 19 to 23 August, where the application of mathematics, science and technology is geared to captivate the imaginations of grade 7 to grade 12 learners.

Sasol’s flagship career exhibition was endorsed by the Free State Government.

Cllr Brutus Mahlaku, Executive Mayor of Metsimaholo said, “Sasol Techno X sparks a desire for mathematics, science and technology amongst students. It stimulates them and drives an eagerness for them to do better. In addition, the week-long expo brings investment to the province.”

Sasol Techno X provides a dynamic and interactive way for learners to discover career opportunities in these three fields. For the week, there were in excess of 370 workshops for students, 15 workshops for teachers, 170 lectures and 30 site visits to Sasol and surrounding companies.

Vusi Cwane, General Manager Public Affairs: Group Marketing and Operations, Sasol said, “Choosing a career is an important part for a student. The Sasol Techno X therefore exposes them to jobs and professionals who have excelled. The expo breaks the stigma that mathematics and science are for a selected few.”

At Sasol Techno X, learners had the opportunity to engage with 13 academic institutions, 33 business organisations and were exposed to 27 business units at Sasol. Industry stakeholders also engaged with the learners on the practicalities of moving through course studies and bursary options.

Sasol’s bursary scheme is recognised as one of the largest and most competitive offers in South Africa. Boasting an all-inclusive package, this scheme includes all tuition fees, provides the possibility for paid vacation work and an opportunity to work for the company upon graduation. Sasol is an employer of choice amongst professionals in the energy and chemicals sphere and has been recognised, even amongst students.

“Sasol’s involvement in specific investments in the areas of mathematics, science and technology are key to closing the skills gap in our country and therefore, it is crucial that we engage and inspire our future leaders,” said Cwane.

According to the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), South Africa currently has one engineer for every 3 100 people, compared to, Germany with one engineer for every 200 people. In countries like Japan, UK and USA, this ratio stands at about one to 310.