In 2022, our company proudly launched the Future of Manufacturing (FOM) Leadership Programme, an initiative with a profound mission to uplift and empower young learners in Umlazi, KZN.
January 23, 2024
In 2022, our company proudly launched the Future of Manufacturing (FOM) Leadership Programme, an initiative with a profound mission to uplift and empower young learners in Umlazi, KZN. Through a comprehensive and holistic approach, this programme aimed to bridge the educational gap in maths and science, mentor students in invaluable life skills, instil financial literacy, and foster physical health.
Let's delve into the impactful journey of this programme and discover the transformative changes it brought to the lives of 60 Grade 11 learners.
One of the programme's cornerstones was providing each participant with a mobile smart device equipped with an AI-enabled Maths and Science app. With access to over 3000 exercises and videos per grade, learners had a personalized learning pathway, reinforced by one-on-one digital tutoring to clarify any doubts. Additionally, the programme conducted six in-person exam preparation workshops, ensuring learners were well-prepared for academic success.
Beyond academics, the learners had the unique opportunity to attend weekly mentorship sessions via Zoom focused on essential life skills, including values, communication, conflict management, kindness, relationships, and courage. These sessions were complemented by short daily videos to reinforce the acquired knowledge.
The programme's commitment to the learners' future extended to offering a short course in Financial Life Skills. This course equipped the students with essential knowledge on managing personal finances, making wise financial decisions, understanding budgets, and grasping economic fundamentals. The learners received certificates, enhancing their employability and provided them with valuable skills for a successful future.
Recognising the connection between physical and mental well-being, the FOM Leadership Programme partnered with the Prime Human Performance Institute to promote physical exercise to support a healthy body and mind. Weekly physical exercise sessions were held, teaching learners functional exercises that could be continued independently, fostering self-confidence and academic improvement.
The impact of the FOM Leadership Programme in 2022 was truly commendable. By providing opportunities to previously disadvantaged learners, the programme successfully strengthened their educational foundation, fostered valuable life skills, and empowered them with financial literacy. Notably, all 60 participants were from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, and the programme's success has inspired the involvement of more students and schools in the future.
As the best performers from this programme become eligible for the Grade 12 FOM Bursary Programme, sponsored by Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), the future prospects for these young leaders are promising. The support and enthusiasm from the region's school principals have been instrumental in the programme's success, with the potential to create a well-prepared pipeline of candidates for TSAM's Toyota Manufacturing Academy.
The Future of Manufacturing Leadership Programme stands as a shining example of how targeted mentorship, educational empowerment, and holistic development can transform lives and uplift communities. As we look ahead, we are excited about the potential for more learners to benefit from this transformative programme, ensuring a brighter future for them and contributing to the growth of the automotive sector and society as a whole.
