Concor, wholly-owned subsidiary of Murray & Roberts, South Africa's leading engineering, contracting and construction services group, is focussing on upliftment of education in two public schools which have long been starved of resources. The group is also rendering assistance to a local university.

Crown Mines Primary School, Langlaagte Technical School and the University of Johannesburg are the main beneficiaries of Concor's vision, which is to uplift the quality of life among communities where it operates. "We espouse a partnership principle when selecting projects," explains communications manager, Sue Upton. "Building relationships with people has a multiplier effect on the results as we become personally involved with individuals and forge bonds of trust and cooperation. We encourage extensive two-way communication through formal meetings and informal encounters as well as through regular phone ca phone calls."

Crown Mines Primary is situated opposite Concor's head office and dates back to 1938. After lengthy consultation and debate, Concor began upgrading the buildings, repairing the roof, renovating the ablution blocks and painting the classrooms. "One of the most pressing needs was for an additional classroom," continues Upton, "But we went a step further, providing a large Portacamp which comprises one large and two smaller rooms, and the school was able to turn this into a library, a staff room and a kitchen. We also constructed a storeroom and laid paving on the school grounds and at the entrance "

Each year, Concor also sponsors the top learner in Grade 7, securing a place at the Langlaagte Technical School to continue his or her secondary education and providing fees, uniform and stationery. "We also get involved in the school's celebrations," adds Upton. "We fund the prize-giving, supplying trophies, medals and certificates."
The Langlaagte Technical School has seen the addition of three new classrooms and the refurbishment of three more. "We sub-divided the old mechanical workshop to create a fully equipped computer centre and two standard classrooms. One storeroom was converted into a classroom and an old masonry workshop into a technical drawing room. All the classrooms were fitted with ceramic tile floors, suspended ceilings and light fittings.

"What is particularly rewarding about our work with these schools is the marvellous co-operation we receive," Upton points out. "The staff really goes the extra mile to get the utmost out of their facilities, and work with us in trying to provide the best possible education for the children. For instance, the principal at Langlaagte purchased a software programme which is improving the children's reading and writing skills by leaps and bounds."

In addition, Concor awards a bursary to the top learner to attend the University of Johannesburg (UJ) to read for a degree in civil engineering. "We sponsor the prize-giving ceremony at Langlaagte too. At both schools we provide the official stationery as well as certificates."

At UJ, Concor appropriately works with the engineering faculty, funding certain activities such as educational tours.

Each of the seven divisions within Concor also nurtures its own specific social investment project. "Wherever Concor is awarded a contract, the relevant division will identify a need within the communities where the work is situated and ensure that on termination of the contract, the division leaves a lasting legacy. This could be a classroom, a clinic or a number of individuals with new, practical skills they can put to use immediately."