Recognising the urgent need to address this, the Young Diamantaires in collaboration with the Impact Catalyst and several corporate organisations, stepped in to drive meaningful change by facilitating partnerships that contribute to the establishment of a science laboratory at Renaissance Secondary School, in Musina, Limpopo.

Through generous funding and support from DeBeers Venetia Mine, Diamonds Do Good, World Federation of Diamond Bourses(WFDB), Rubel & Ménasché, The Royal Asscher Foundation, Tracr, Q Report Rami Baron, HK, SRK, Zitron South Africa and Zitron Projects ZA, the science laboratory is set for completion in August2025.

“In underserved communities, the barriers to accessing quality education can seem impossible. However, initiatives like this not only impact current students but also inspire future generations who will benefit from the facilities and learning experiences we invest in today. We recognise that investing in education is investing in our collective future and through our efforts at De Beers Group, we aim to provide the necessary tools that will empower young minds to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s socio-economic development. Together, we can cultivate a culture of excellence that allows students to aspire and achieve in STEM fields, ultimately driving the nation toward a brighter future,” said Andy Cyster, SED Manager at Venetia Mine, De Beers Group.

Among the innovative facilities being incorporated into the new science lab are energy-efficient features, including the installation of skylights that allow natural light to illuminate the space without electricity. Additionally, LED lights will be installed, consuming less power than conventional fluorescent tubes, while inverter air-conditioning units will ensure a comfortable learning environment. The laboratory is also being built to meet stringent energy efficiency standards defined by SANS204:2011, ensuring sustainability through improvements such as thermal insulation and ventilation systems that promote airflow.

Additionally, one of the key enhancements is the installation of a three-phase power supply, a requirement prompted by the existing infrastructure’s inability to meet the power needs of modern laboratory equipment. Currently, the school relies on a single-phase system, which has severely limited the ability to use essential resources, such as photocopiers and air conditioning units. The forthcoming three-phase supply will not only support the lab but also facilitate initiatives like the kitchen facility, ensuring comprehensive upgrades across the school.

Hlengiwe Molefe, the Impact Catalyst ICT & Education Project Manager, remarked, “The facility is developed in line with the Department of Education guidelines for school science facilities. The fully equipped laboratory will feature modern teaching and learning tools, ensuring learners not only grasp theoretical concepts but also gain the practical exposure needed to excel in STEM subjects.”

The advanced lab is designed to facilitate learning for students from grades 10 to 12, enabling them to perform experiments with necessary laboratory equipment and chemicals.

As this transformative project nears completion, it is inspiring to see the positive impact it is having on the community. Students at Renaissance Secondary School have shared their enthusiasm about the new laboratory.

Murunwa Makhado, a grade 10 learner and student president, expressed, “I am so excited about this lab; it is the happiest thing that has ever happened to Renaissance Secondary School.” Ramashia Sarah Lindelani, a grade 12 learner, added, “I can’t wait to use it!” Milanzi Moses Yusuf, another grade 12 learner, shared his gratitude, saying, “Thank you very much for this job that is currently happening in the science lab; I am excited about it.” Mike Munyai, a grade 10 learner, eagerly mentioned, “It will be such a great pleasure to do adventurous things in this science lab. I am so happy to have a lab at Renaissance Secondary School.”

The sentiment of gratitude and excitement extends to the teaching staff as well. Miss Nare Claudia, a teacher and School Governing Body secretary, articulated her appreciation, stating, “We have been so blessed to have sponsors coming to build for us a laboratory. We truly appreciate it; we want to say thank you very much to the sponsors. We are overjoyed. We had learners doing so well, but we never had the opportunity to train them in a lab.”

As of now, the project is at 85% completion, with foundational construction and roof installation complete. Aground-breaking ceremony held on 29 November 2024, marked a significant milestone in this journey. Beyond the lab itself, the school is also receiving a much-needed electricity upgrade, ensuring adequate power supply for the new facility and supporting various academic activities.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the fundraising team behind this initiative, STEM education at Renaissance Secondary School is being significantly advanced, opening new opportunities for learners. The team included: Tamara Gabay from Leibish & Co. (Head of Project), David Troostwyk from Salotro, Robin Bhebhe from OC Gems, Mike Asscher from Royal Asscher, Molefi Letsiki from Molefi Letsiki Diamond, Kealeboga Pulefrom Nungu Diamonds, Cedric Barsamian from Barsamian Diamonds, and Elodie Daguzan from the World Diamond Council and Rami Baron from Q report.