Technical
Education

The Sasol Foundation (the Foundation) recognises the critical importance of improving technical education to ensure that learners are adequately prepared for the future workforce. By focusing on educator development and providing targeted support to schools, the Foundation is helping to address the shortage of qualified technical teachers in Mathematics, science, and other key subjects. Additionally, the Sasol Foundation is working with partners to enhance the integration of alternative energy specialisations into technical school curricula, ensuring that learners are equipped with the skills needed for South Africa’s transition to a green economy.

Why Sasol Foundation champions technical education

The gap between theoretical knowledge and industry requirements is widening, particularly as industries adapt to new technologies and environmental challenges. To close this gap and ensure that South Africa remains competitive on the global stage, we focus on the following:

SASOL FOUNDATION’S SUPPORT FOR TECHNICAL EDUCATION

SUPPORTS THREE MAIN AIMS

1. Aligning education with industry needs

By supporting technical education, we aim to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application.

2. Building a skilled workforce

Through our initiatives, we contribute to the development of human capital by increasing the number of skilled professionals in STEM disciplines.

3. Promoting vocational education

We believe in the power of technical and vocational education to transform lives and communities

John Orr Technical School and Sasol Foundation have collectively enabled:

• Developing artisans working towards ambitious goals
• Thousands of non-students from extended areas benefit from our out-of-school programmes
• Voltage solar powered car one of the new inventions by learners
• More than 1 400 specialised training learners in technical fields 

Our approach to impact

Our interventions are designed to support and enhance the changing landscape of technical and vocational education, particularly in response to the challenges posed by climate change and the need for innovation.

Inspiring career choices

Through ‘try-a-skill’ activities, we provide students with hands-on experiences that spark interest in technical and vocational skills.

These activities help students see the practical applications of their education and inspire them to pursue careers in these fields

Enhancing educational infrastructure

We are committed to equipping schools and TVET colleges with state-of-the-art vocational skills development equipment. This ensures that students have access to the tools and technologies they will encounter in the workplace, making them job-ready upon graduation.

Capacity building for educators

Recognising that quality education begins with skilled educators, we invest in the professional development of lecturers and teachers. By enhancing their skills and competencies, we ensure that they can deliver effective and engaging instruction that meet the highest standards.

Advancing digital skills

In today’s digital age, it is essential that educators are proficient in using technology to enhance learning. We focus on building the digital skills of educators, enabling them to deliver curriculum through blended learning approaches that combine traditional methods with innovative digital tools.