23 JUNE 2026
Ongoye Secondary School sits in Richards Bay which Hillside Aluminium has been a part of for three decades in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Over the past three years, much of the school has been rebuilt, including classrooms, toilet facilities, a library, and a kitchen fitted out to teach students how to cook.
Recently, a group of Hillside employees joined year 12 students for a hands-on cooking class, alongside conversations about further education and careers. To support the school's Consumer Studies program, Hillside also donated kitchen equipment for students' practical learning.
The visit marked three years of investment by Hillside that has changed how the school functions day-to-day. Through this investment, all asbestos roofing and gutters were removed, six water tanks were installed, and 46 toilet facilities were refurbished, including a paraplegic-friendly unit. Fifteen classrooms and the staff room were also renovated. The library has been upgraded with new books, and the school now includes a fully equipped Consumer Studies room with eight stoves and a fridge.
This work forms part of a broader schools refurbishment programme in the King Cetshwayo District. In 2023, R51 million (approximately US$3 million) was invested across four schools, improving infrastructure while supporting local employment.
At Ongoye Secondary School, these upgrades have changed the day-to-day experience for both learners and educators, creating safer and more functional spaces, with improvements helping to reduce overcrowding and strengthen access to quality education.
As Hillside marks 30 years of operation in 2026, the visit was an opportunity for the team to reflect on what sustained community relationships look like in practice.
"Our 30th anniversary is a moment to recognise and build on the long-standing relationships we've developed in the communities around our operations," said Craig Ullbricht, Corporate Affairs Manager at Hillside.
"We are grateful for what South32 has done for our school. We now have a beautiful school because of South32's support," said Bheki Ndlovu, Head of Ongoye Secondary School.
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