Epiroc South Africa has partnered with the Siyafunda Education Foundation (SEF) to launch Robotics Academy Programmes at two underserved schools in the town of Deben in the Northern Cape. This transformative initiative aims to expose learners at Deben Primary School and Gamagara Secondary school to a hands-on Robotics and Coding experience, spark an interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and equip them with essential skills for the digital future.
These extracurricular Programmes present a powerful expression of Epiroc’s narrative of purpose-driven education and community upliftment, fostering critical thinking, creativity and teamwork – key competencies for success in an increasingly digitalised and automated world. “Epiroc’s advanced automation and tele-remote technologies enable operators to control machinery from a safe distance, reducing risk and enhancing efficiency in complex mining environments,” says Ziyanda Mkhaliphi, Regional Corporate & Social Responsibility Manager at Epiroc South Africa. “Our electrification products including battery-electric drill rigs and loaders, support the global transition to greener mining by significantly reducing carbon emissions and noise pollution. By introducing Robotics and Coding in disadvantaged communities, we’re laying the foundation for a sustainable and intelligent mining future, while empowering the next generation of technically skilled professionals to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.”
SEF’s Founding Mastermind-in-Chief, Felix Spies, emphasises that the launch of this Robotics Programme is perfectly timed, as South Africa embraces Robotics education and innovation. “Our Programmes support the Department of Basic Education’s new Coding and Robotics curriculum, aligning with global technology trends. Robotics is no longer niche but rather a gateway to careers in automation, AI, data science and engineering, all key growth sectors in the national economy. This intensifying demand drives an urgent need to develop a workforce that blends technical expertise with critical thinking.”
Thato Mohapi, Epiroc’s Regional Sales Manager – Northern Cape, highlights the growing role of Robotics in enhancing safety, enabling predictive maintenance and driving process automation across industries like mining, agriculture and manufacturing.
“Robotics is a pathway to economic transformation, developing hard skills like Coding and engineering and soft skills like problem-solving and teamwork,” highlights Thato. “This exposure encourages learners to consider STEM options and broadens their career choices. We’re inspiring a passion for technology!”
“Epiroc’s deep roots in mining and industry, paired with its forward-looking approach to technology and skills development, made them an invaluable partner,” says Felix. “This collaboration allows SEF to work with an industry leader that values long-term social impact, innovation, skills development and local empowerment, especially in mining-affected communities, helping shape the industries of tomorrow.”
SEF hosted the Annual Robotics Event at the Thabo Moorosi Multi-Purpose Centre in Kuruman on 18 October 2025, marking the successful completion of the 2025 Programme. The event recognised the efforts of learners, educators and facilitators, acknowledged Epiroc’s investment and motivated schools as the Programme prepares to deepen its reach in 2026. Symbolic trophies and awards celebrated learner achievement and school participation, instilling pride and a shared sense of accomplishment.
Educators reported increased confidence in delivering STEM content and expressed their appreciation of SEF’s hands-on training, with many saying that the Programme reignited their passion for science and teaching. One facilitator remarked, “This is the first time I’ve seen learners so excited to stay after school for something academic.” Learners also voiced a newfound interest in science and technology careers and expressed excitement about building and programming robots. Survey feedback and site visits revealed higher attendance, improved teamwork and stronger motivation among participants.
“We are extremely proud of our partnership,” comment Ziyanda and Felix. By equipping learners with future-fit skills and fostering a passion for STEM, the Epiroc-SEF partnership is helping to build a generation of innovators and problem-solvers and unlocking the potential of tomorrow’s leaders to thrive in a technology-driven world.
Ziyanda concludes: “These Robotics Programmes are catalysts for job creation, innovation and global competitiveness – key steps in shifting South Africa from a consumption-based to a knowledge-driven economy. By aligning our corporate strategy with national development goals, Epiroc is helping to build not just machines but futures.”
