The start of the school year arrived with more than new uniforms and fresh notebooks for learners across Limpopo and the Eastern Limb. It came with reassurance, renewed hope and a powerful reminder that when communities work together, young people are given the opportunity to step confidently into their futures.
Through a series of coordinated back to school initiatives, Valterra Platinum has expanded its commitment to education, equipping schools across the Capricorn South District, Mogalakwena communities and areas surrounding Mototolo Mine with the essential resources learners need to succeed.
Recognising excellence and nurturing ambition
On 20 February 2026, at Jack Botes Hall in Polokwane, Polokwane Smelter donated 480 study guides and 350 stationery packs to the Department of Education during the District Excellence Awards ceremony. The event celebrated top performing learners from across the Capricorn South District for their academic achievements in 2025 and created a moment of pride for families, educators and the broader community.
The handover reflects Valterra Platinum’s belief that academic excellence flourishes when dedication is matched with access to the right tools.
Polokwane Smelter Manager Tafadzwa Ndlovu encouraged learners to remain focused and disciplined as they pursue their ambitions, reminding them that their hard work today shapes the opportunities of tomorrow.
“Polokwane Smelter will continue to provide sustainable support to the Department of Education to help brighten the future of our learners,” he said.
Director of the Capricorn South District, Tinyiko Nkuzana, welcomed the continued partnership and expressed appreciation for the ongoing investment in education. The district achieved an 85 percent pass rate in 2025 and is working towards an ambitious 92 percent target in 2026.
“In 2025, the district achieved an 85 percent pass rate, and we are confident that these study materials will help even more learners succeed and represent us at national level,” she said.
Additional support will extend to Jawe Jawe Secondary School, Tshetlo Secondary School, Bapoteng and Mafolofolo schools, where further study materials and office furniture will be donated to strengthen teaching and learning environments.
Creating enabling spaces in Mogalakwena
In the Mogalakwena area, Valterra Platinum and its contractor partner ARC Engineering strengthened learning environments at Bakenberg and Makgenene High Schools through the donation of essential classroom stationery.
Each school received comprehensive supplies, including exercise books, hardbound books, memo books, shorthand books, glue sticks, sellotape and other classroom essentials that play a vital role in day to day teaching and learning. While simple in appearance, these items carry significant impact in classrooms where access to basic materials can influence participation, confidence and performance.
ARC Engineering Project Coordinator Tshepo Mokhonoana reflected on the deeper meaning behind the initiative. “We are committed to enriching learners through meaningful contributions because the future truly lies in their hands. It is a privilege to partner with Valterra Platinum in advancing this shared goal.”
Peter Koitsioe, Contractor Social Management Specialist at Mogalakwena Mine, added that equipping schools with critical resources enhances learner engagement, strengthens curriculum delivery and contributes to improved academic outcomes over time.
Reaching more learners in the Eastern Limb
Valterra Platinum’s annual Back to School Campaign also reached seven institutions surrounding Mototolo Mine: Sengange Secondary School, Mahlagare ECD, Mashishing High School, Skhila Secondary School, Gobetse Secondary School, Ngwanatheko Primary School and Kgahlanong Secondary School.
Primary and secondary schools received comprehensive stationery packs, while the early childhood development centre was provided with age appropriate learning materials designed to support early development and curiosity.
The impact of the campaign was strengthened through the support of contractor partners. Uzinga Civils delivered printing paper, Invisible Valves supplied calculators and mathematics sets, Sectional Poles and Vega Controls donated additional learner packs, and Red Metal Mining provided 150 pairs of school shoes.
Together, these contributions ease the burden on families and allow learners to focus on what matters most, learning, growing and dreaming beyond their circumstances. Valterra Platinum’s Executive Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Yvonne Mfolo, said the initiatives reflect the company’s long term sustainability strategy and its belief in the transformative power of education. “Education is one of the most powerful catalysts for sustainable change.
Through initiatives such as our Back to School Campaign, we are not simply providing supplies, we are investing in potential and helping create the conditions for learners to thrive,” she said. “Every learner reached is a step closer to a confident, empowered future.”
Across its operations, Valterra Platinum continues to view education as a catalyst for unearthing bright futures and building resilient communities. Through collaborative partnerships and purposeful investment, the company remains committed to ensuring that every learner begins the year equipped not only with the tools they need, but with the belief that their future matters.
