At Stellenbosch University, social impact is more than just a responsibility – it is a fundamental value, rooted in collaboration and reciprocal engagement to build a better society. Through its annual awards, the Division of Social Impact recognises exceptional contributions from the University’s academic and professional administrative support services teams. These awards celebrate their tireless efforts to uplift communities, foster lasting partnerships with external stakeholders, and demonstrate that impactful change is a collaborative journey.
On Wednesday, 4 December 2024, the Rail Safety Education and Awareness Campaign for Primary School Learners was honoured with the prestigious Stellenbosch University Social Impact Team Award. The team was represented by Mr Pieter Conradie and Mr Olabanji Asekun, both research engineers for the Gibela Chair within the Faculty of Engineering. They received this recognition at a ceremony held at the Stellenbosch University Museum.
The initiative was one of the evening’s highlights, celebrated for its significant contributions to rail safety, education, and community engagement.
Launched in 2022, the Rail Safety Education and Awareness Outreach Programme is a collaborative effort between the Railway Safety Regulator, the Gibela Rail Transport Consortium, and the Faculty of Engineering at Stellenbosch University. Aimed at primary school learners, it has two core objectives:
To instill safe practices regarding trains, railway tracks, and stations.
To inspire young learners by introducing them to the wonders of science, engineering, and technology.
Since its inception, the programme has reached 13 primary schools across Gauteng, the Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, directly engaging more than 800 learners from Grades 4 to 7. Through interactive activities such as railway safety pledges and model car crash demonstrations, the programme delivers vital rail safety education in a way that is both engaging and memorable.
Beyond promoting rail safety, the programme serves as a gateway to the exciting world of science, engineering, and technology. Learners participate in hands-on engineering activities, gaining insights into how engineering shapes their everyday lives. They are also introduced to opportunities within Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Engineering, sparking their curiosity and encouraging them to envision futures as scientists and engineers.
This dual focus on safety and education makes the initiative a powerful example of how social impact can be both practical and aspirational.
The success of the Rail Safety Education and Awareness Campaign underscores the strength of partnerships. It is a testament to the commitment of Stellenbosch University, the Rail Safety Regulator, and Gibela, who together have created a programme that goes beyond safety to inspire and empower future generations.
The Rail Safety Regulator expressed its pride in being part of this initiative and its gratitude for the recognition. “Ensuring the safety of children exposed to rail reserves is a responsibility we take seriously, and this collaboration has amplified our efforts,” a representative said. “We congratulate the team on their dedication and success in making this initiative impactful.”
Photograph: Dr Sipho Mahokoto, representing the Division of Social Impact, and Mr Pieter Conradie, accepting the Stellenbosch University Social Impact Team Award on behalf of the Rail Safety Education and Awareness Campaign team.
Watch the short video below to learn more about the Rail Safety Education and Awareness Campaign:
