Using Quatuum Verse to Expand STEM Opportunities for Mohlakeng Youth

Prof. Sakhiwe Ndlovu, founder and CEO of Quatuum Verse Pty Ltd, is empowering young people in Mohlakeng and the broader West Rand region through STEM education, robotics training and mentorship programmes designed to equip learners with the skills and confidence needed for future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

I have always believed that the youth here possess incredible talent, creativity and resilience – Professor Sakhiwe Ndlovu

Quatuum Verse to address challenges

Driven by his own educational journey, Ndlovu mentioned that he established Quatuum Verse to address challenges he experienced while pursuing mathematics and to create opportunities for learners who may have the talent but lack access to resources, guidance and exposure.

Bringing STEM Opportunities to Mohlakeng

Ndlovu believes his personal experiences shaped his vision for the organization, “My educational journey inspired Quatuum Verse. I experienced both the excitement of discovering mathematics and the frustration of facing challenges with limited support and resources,” he said. “Those experiences made me realize that many talented young people are not held back by a lack of ability, but by a lack of opportunity and guidance.”

Bringing inspiration to his neighbourhood

Based in Mohlakeng, the initiative focuses on creating access to quality STEM education, mentorship and practical learning opportunities for young people in the community. Ndlovu chose to establish the organization in Mohlakeng because it is his home and because he believes local youth have significant potential, “I have always believed that the youth here possess incredible talent, creativity and resilience,” Ndlovu said. “What many of them lacked was exposure to opportunities in STEM, robotics and innovation.”

Building During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Quatuum Verse began operating during one of the most challenging periods in recent history, with the COVID-19 pandemic creating significant barriers to education and community programmes. Ndlovu said building trust and delivering learning opportunities during that period required adaptability, commitment and persistence.

Learning Beyond Memorization

The organization’s approach focuses on helping learners develop a deeper understanding of concepts rather than simply memorizing information. Through practical examples, engineering applications and supportive learning environments, learners are encouraged to ask questions, embrace mistakes as learning opportunities and develop problem-solving skills.

Empowering Through Confidence and Skills

According to Ndlovu, one of the most rewarding aspects of the work has been witnessing learners who once struggled with mathematics gain confidence and achieve results they never imagined possible.“

True empowerment is when a young person believes they can build the future rather than wait for it,” Ndlovu said.

Changing Perceptions of Robotics and Innovation

Since its establishment, Quatuum Verse has helped shift perceptions around robotics and technology in the community. What was once viewed by many as an opportunity available only to privileged schools is increasingly being recognized as an important pathway towards future careers. Ndlovu believes partnerships with schools, businesses, community organizations and higher education institutions remain essential in expanding access to STEM opportunities.

Bridging the STEM Opportunity Gap

While South Africa continues to face challenges around unequal access to STEM education, digital skills and technological resources, initiatives such as Quatuum Verse are helping bridge the gap by bringing innovation, mentorship and technology closer to underserved communities. Through his work, Ndlovu is demonstrating that young people can become creators of solutions and leaders in shaping the future of technology and innovation.

Send us your story!