In a landmark advancement for science and technology education in KwaZulu-Natal, PROTEC STEM today officially opens its second Science Centre of Excellence at its INK Learning Centre in KwaMashu. The fully refurbished science laboratory has been made possible through a major corporate partnership and generous financial and resource investment from principal donor SLG (Pty) Ltd.
The modernised facility provides local learners and educators with direct access to fully equipped laboratories and high-quality, practical scientific tools, marking a critical milestone in PROTEC STEM’s initiative to establish dedicated science centres across all project regions. The grand opening serves as the centrepiece of the organisation’s National Science Month celebrations.
The complete revitalisation of the facility was spearheaded by SLG, whose principal contribution of modern laboratory equipment, scientific apparatus, and specialised chemicals restored the laboratory to world-class standards. The ongoing operational success of the INK branch is made possible through the crucial support of branch donors Altron and Community Chest Durban, whose sustained operational funding ensures the centre can deliver continuous impact to the community.
The establishment of this flagship laboratory was brought to reality through the dedicated fundraising drive and strategic vision of Mr Lucas Ntuli, PROTEC Regional Manager for KZN, working hand-in-hand with Mr Tyson Dotye, INK Branch Manager, who oversees the on-the-ground execution and daily mentorship of the learners.
For many years, the INK laboratory served the communities of Inanda, Ntuzuma, and KwaMashu (INK) as a vibrant hub for scientific curiosity and academic achievement among learners from underserved backgrounds. Today’s re-launch restores that critical capacity, dramatically expanding practical STEM education and preparing young South Africans to excel in future technical and scientific careers.
Leadership from both PROTEC STEM and SLG were present alongside operational leadership, including PROTEC’s GM of Operations, Mr Joe Mavuso, and GM of Business Development, Mr Munei Tshiovhe, to celebrate the collaborative effort that brought this project to life.
Speaking on the potential of the new centre, Mr Balan Moodley, Chief Executive Officer of PROTEC STEM, stated:
“The opening of the INK Science Centre is more than the launch of a physical facility; it is a direct investment in the future of South Africa. Every learner deserves the opportunity to experience science through discovery, experimentation, and innovation. This centre demonstrates what is possible when community organisations and visionary corporate partners like SLG (Pty) Ltd unite to create opportunities that empower young people and strengthen our country’s STEM pipeline.”
Reaffirming the strategic vision behind the initiative, Mr Antony Hlwungwane, Chairman of the PROTEC Board, added:
“Establishing world-class STEM infrastructure in communities like INK is essential to bridging the education gap in South Africa. We are deeply grateful to SLG for their leadership and shared vision, as well as our key operational funders Altron and Community Chest Durban. By equipping our youth with practical scientific skills today, we are fostering the innovators, engineers, and problem-solvers who will drive our nation’s future economic growth.”
Highlighting the company’s commitment to sustainable community development, SLG noted that empowering young minds through quality STEM education is one of the most meaningful investments a responsible corporate citizen can make. As the principal partner in restoring the laboratory, SLG is proud to support an initiative that will provide learners in the INK community with access to practical scientific learning, inspire curiosity and innovation, and contribute to the development of South Africa’s future STEM talent pipeline. The restoration of the facility aligns with the company’s commitment to education, skills development, and the upliftment of local communities.
The celebration brought together representatives from government, the Department of Basic Education, industry leaders, donor organisations, educators, learners, and community stakeholders to mark the occasion. The event featured the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, live learner science experiments, interactive STEM activities, and donor recognition proceedings.
PROTEC was honoured to welcome Dr M Muofhe, the DDG in the Dept of Science, Technology and Innovation and Protec Ambassador who addressed the guests, learners and educators
About PROTEC STEM
PROTEC STEM is a South African non-profit organisation committed to developing the mathematics, science, and technology competence of young people from underserved communities. Since 1982, the organisation has supported thousands of learners through academic assistance, teacher development, career guidance, and STEM enrichment programmes, enabling them to pursue higher education and successful careers in STEM fields.
About SLG (Pty) Ltd
SLG (Pty) Ltd is a leading energy supplier dedicated to powering industrial growth while actively investing in the social and economic development of local communities. As part of its commitment to corporate social investment and social transformation, SLG (Pty) Ltd prioritises education and skills development—particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)—to build long-term capacity and expand opportunities for youth across South Africa.