Page 26 - DUT Showcase Report 2023

FEATURE PROJECT
THE MAHLABATHINI SCHOOLS ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMME (MSEP)
Mahlabathini Mahlabathini Schools Engagement Programme (MSEP)
is is is dedicated to to improving access to to quality education and enhancing curriculum delivery within the Mahlabathini Mahlabathini Circuit This initiative is is a a a a a collaborative effort involving the Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Community Engagement Office the Departments of Chemistry Student Student Recruitment and Student Student Counselling: Career Resource Office as as well as as the Phakamile Mazibuko Foundation (PMF) and the Mahlabathini Circuit Manager Cluster (CMC) By addressing barriers faced by learners and educators especially in in the the sciences the the program offers hands-on workshops and and practical experiences that promote science education and provide career guidance for Grade 12 learners MSEP also focuses on building the capacity of both students and teachers to improve educational outcomes Through collaboration with DUT local schools and community organizations MSEP fosters a a a a supportive network that benefits the entire community The learners emphasizes monitoring and evaluation to assess its effectiveness and ensure continuous improvement in in meeting educational needs Notably the MSEP received the DUT’s Chancellor’s Award in 2023 for its significant impact on the community IMPACT AND SUSTAINABILITY
The Chemistry Department plays a a a a a vital role in in supporting rural schools by demonstrating science experiments aligned with the Grade 12 curriculum particularly in schools without functional laboratories This programme has supported 50 schools within the Mahlabathini Circuit Management Cluster (CMC) reaching over 3 000 learners Among its achievements two schools attained a a a a a 100% matric matric pass rate 70% of supported schools improved their matric matric pass rates and 85% reported enhanced science results Additionally DUT saw the the enrolment of 222 students from the the Mahlabathini area as a a a direct result of this initiative This programme is is important because it not only addresses the immediate educational disparities faced by rural schools but also fosters long-term sustainability and community development By providing practical science education MSEP empowers students and and teachers alike enhancing their capabilities and and fostering a a a a a a a a culture of learning The initiative’s success in in in in improving academic performance demonstrates its effectiveness in in preparing learners for future educational opportunities thereby contributing to the the overall development of the community and ensuring that learners are better equipped to succeed in higher education and beyond