The University of Johannesburg (UJ), in partnership with Barloworld, will unveil 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 will officially open 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.
This marks another milestone in the University’s transformative Societal Impact project by addressing critical infrastructure needs for communities.
The groundbreaking project, which began in 2014, spans several villages, including Gwakwani, Matatani, and Mbodi. Residents have significantly benefited from sustainable solutions in energy, water, connectivity, education, food security, and healthcare, all aimed at addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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) fully equipped with computers, books, and other learning materials. This centre is fully equipped with computers, books, and other learning materials. The benefits have been immediate, as the school has seen its matric pass rate improve from 57% to an impressive 95% in just two years. The project has since become a reference for how universities can translate knowledge into practical solutions that improve lives while advancing sustainable development.
Now, UJ and Barloworld have partnered to bring a state-of-the-art Science Centre to Hanyani Secondary School, further empowering 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.
Says Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi, UJ Vice-Chancellor and Principal: “This Science Centre is more than an investment in infrastructure; it is 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 and creating pathways to inclusive growth and development.”
Prof Mpedi adds that the Science Centre is another testament to the University’s commitment to expanding its intellectual capital to communities and driving positive change that leads to local economic growth and human development. “This project demonstrates what becomes possible when universities move beyond their campuses and work alongside communities to create meaningful and lasting change. At UJ, we believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Our responsibility is to help bridge that gap by investing in people, especially the youth.”
Ms Andronicca Masemola, Barloworld’s Divisional Chief Executive Officer, 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.”
She adds: “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.”
Event Details:
Date: 07 September 2026
Venue: Hanyani Secondary School
Time: 07h30 for 08h00
