Building futures beyond the classroom

More than 1,200 learners gathered at the Soshanguve Engineering School of Specialisation on Youth Day for BMW Group South Africa’s fifth annual programme, organized with UNICEF South Africa and education partners. The event focused on science, technology, career guidance, financial literacy, and mentorship to prepare young people for future opportunities amid South Africa’s 60.9% youth unemployment rate among 15- to 24-year-olds. The school grounds became a hub for coding, robotics, science experiments, and career exhibitions, with learners engaging with educators, industry professionals, and volunteers. Sessions covered subject choices, future careers, and practical skills to bridge classroom learning with real-world opportunities. School principal Tladi Mashiane emphasized the event’s role in empowering youth, thanking BMW Group and partners for their long-term investment in education. He highlighted the programme’s potential to help learners envision possibilities beyond their current circumstances. BMW Group South Africa CEO Peter van Binsbergen stressed that South Africa’s youth face challenges like access to quality education and career opportunities. He noted that while Youth Day commemorates past struggles, today’s focus is on equipping young people with skills for a rapidly evolving workforce, particularly in STEM fields. The automotive industry’s shift toward advanced technology underscored the need for digital and engineering skills. The event included exhibitions and demonstrations to expose learners to careers in coding, robotics, and data-driven innovation. Partners like Sci-Bono, Old Mutual Foundation, and the Southern African-German Chamber of Commerce contributed to the programme, reinforcing collaboration between industry, education, and community efforts.