Andrew Hinkly, executive head of Marketing for Anglo American Platinum agreed, stating that the business firmly believes there is a case to establish a new high-tech fuel cell industry in South Africa.
“Partnerships like the Cofimvaba Schools District Technology Project can make a significant contribution to South Africa’s development through job creation, education and training, healthcare provision and infrastructure development,” Andrew said.
Supporting education
In addition to sponsoring the three fuel cells, Anglo American Platinum, together with the Young Engineers and Scientists of Africa and South African Agency for Science & Technology Advancement, has also developed a complementary educational programme. The programme teaches students about the science of fuel cells, with 3,500 students from 26 schools in the region already taking part in the programme.
“Not only are we generating power to support the schools’ basic energy requirements, but as importantly, the supporting educational initiative has been an inspiration to learners, enhancing their aspirations for vocations in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation,” Andrew said.
“These skills are key to creating a knowledge base to support fuel cell deployment and, ultimately, a new, high-tech fuel cell industry in South Africa.”
Find out more about the development of fuel-cell technology at Anglo American Platinum.
