The University of Johannesburg (UJ), in partnership with Barloworld, has unveiled a new Science Centre in one of Limpopo’s remotest and under-resourced schools, giving hope to underprivileged learners.
The state-of-the-art Science Centre was officially opened at Hanyani Secondary School, a feeder school serving several villages in the Tshipise district and surrounding areas between Thohoyandou and Musina on Monday, 7 September 2026.
Transformative Societal Impact
This marks another milestone in the University’s transformative Societal Impact project by addressing critical infrastructure needs for communities.
The project, which started in 2014, spans several villages that includes Gwakwani, Matatani and Mbodi. Residents which have substantially benefited from sustainable solutions in energy, water, connectivity, education, food security and healthcare – all of which are related to addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs).
Remarkable Academic Improvements
The project has since been expanded to Hanyani Secondary School, which now boasts solar panels and a learning facility (known as the Tshumisano Learning Centre) that is fully equipped with computers, books and other learning materials.
The benefits have been instantaneous, with the school achieving an improvement of 95% from 57% in its matric pass rate in just two years.
The project has since become a reference of how universities can translate knowledge into practical solutions that improve lives while advancing sustainable development.
Cutting-Edge Technology for Future Innovators
Now, UJ and Barloworld have partnered to bring a state-of-the-art Science Centre to Hanyani Secondary School to further empower learners with the knowledge, practical skills and confidence to pursue careers in science, engineering and technology.
The facility is equipped with microscopes, 3D printing technology and digital learning resources, among other amenities.
More than a new educational facility, the Science Centre reflects a commitment to creating lasting societal impact through partnerships that transform communities by expanding access to quality education, innovation and opportunity.
University Leadership Commitment
Says UJ Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi: “This Science Centre is more than an investment in infrastructure; it one of the many ways in which the University of Johannesburg demonstrates a meaningful investment in the youth and communities in general.
“It shows how universities and the private sector can collaborate to empower communities to unlock potential, especially in the areas of STEM education.”
Industry Perspective on STEM Development
Andronicca Masemola, Barloworld’s Divisional Chief Executive Office, says, “Investing in this state-of-the-art science facility is far more than a Corporate Social Investment project for us; it is a deliberate, long-term commitment to South African technical innovation and industrial capability. At Barloworld, we firmly believe that Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) form the essential bedrock of sustainable economic development.
“The earthmoving and heavy equipment sector is evolving rapidly, driven by precision engineering, 3D rapid prototyping, digital diagnostic platforms, and advanced material science. By equipping this facility with microscopes, 3D printing technology, and digital learning resources, we are closing the gap between classroom theory and real-world application for high school learners in remote communities who might otherwise lack access to modern equipment.
“Industry sustainability relies on passing on the baton to the next generation. We are immensely proud to partner with the University of Johannesburg on this initiative, providing young minds in Limpopo with the knowledge, practical tools, and confidence required to build successful careers in and lead the future of our industry.”
