The MEC for Roads and Transport Dr Ismail Vadi today announced the 32 beneficiaries of the Gautrain Management Agency’s (GMA) Social Investment Programme (SIP) fund, at the Balalaika hotel in Sandton.
MEC Vadi said “approximately R35 000 000 million, which is a fixed amount, is being distributed amongst beneficiaries with the bulk of the money going to programmes that are focusing on Education. This amount was set aside during the Gautrain development period for SIP projects by the Bombela Concession Company as per the Concession Agreement. The GMA SIP focus areas are Education, Community Care and Environment”.
The 32 beneficiaries were selected after a rigorous selection process that involved submitting an application form accompanied by a detailed proposal. A total of 83 applications were received and 32 beneficiaries were selected based on the fact that they had demonstrated how they will enhance the social, economic and environmental landscape of communities in Gauteng. The evaluation process included site visits and interviews with the managers at the respective projects. Of the 32 beneficiaries, seven are Education projects, and the rest are Community Care and Environment.
“The Education project type are teacher–learner development programmes in Mathematics, Science and Engineering and in certain maximum of three years funding is provided to specific beneficiaries. An example of a project type in this category is TRAC South Africa which supports science, applied mathematics and technology education in South African secondary schools. The programme enables and encourage learners to enter into careers in Science, Engineering, and Technology”, MEC Vadi continued.
Community Care projects types are projects that focuses on home farming initiatives, orphans and vulnerable children, women empowerment and centres for abused women and people living with disabilities. Funding for these projects is predominately once-off and is granted according to the needs expressed by the project.
These Social Development achievements showcase Gautrain as more than just a train but a sustainable project that continues to contribute to the economy and the people of Gauteng.
Enquiries:
Dr Barbara Jensen
Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
Cell: 083 600 4862
E-mail: barbaraj@gautrain.co.za
