Ardagh for Education empowers South African learners

Ardagh Glass Packaging - South Africa has celebrated the one-year milestone of its 'Ardagh for Education' programme.

The ten-year commitment aims to transform STEM education in over 200 schools surrounding the company’s South African operations.

The programme was formulated based on the recognition that access to quality STEM education remains uneven across the country.

To date, it has reached 30,654 learners and 359 teachers in 38 schools in Wadeville, Nigel and Clayville.

Paul Curnow, CEO of Ardagh Glass Packaging-Africa, said: “We believe that equipping young people with technical skills and scientific knowledge early in their educational journey will nurture the scientists, engineers, and innovators who will shape the future of South Africa.

“This conviction aligns with the social pillar of our sustainability strategy, extending that commitment beyond our products to the communities where we operate.”

Ardagh for Education is being rolled out by implementation partner PROTEC – a national, independent, non-profit organisation that provides education and career support programme development.

The design of Ardagh's programme focuses on teacher development through training and ongoing support.

Consequently, students are able to participate in hands-on activities that bring scientific concepts to life.

In addition, mobile laboratories provide science and lab equipment to schools, creating more spaces for learning.

Ardagh said the first year has been a period of significant growth and learning, setting the stage for the continued expansion of the programme.

Schools will remain within the programme through teaching committees and a recognition system to maintain school and teacher engagement, while additional schools will be added.

Mr Curnow concluded: “As we make progress on this ten-year journey, we do so with deep pride and excitement about the possibilities ahead.

"The Ardagh for Education initiative is one of community and impact; our goal is to make a meaningful investment in Ardagh communities and support our purpose: we make packaging for good.

“This programme reaffirms our commitment to South Africa, to its people, and to realising their immense potential.”

Over the next decade, Ardagh anticipates reaching more than 200 schools, supporting 1,100 educators, and enriching the learning experiences of over 300,000 learners from grades four through 12.