We are delighted to announce that Sanari Capital has won Portfolio Company of the Year for Social Impact at the 2022 Private Equity Africa (PEA) Awards for its investment in Edulife Group.
Our investment in Edulife Group has allowed for a renewed energy in the Bloemfontein communities and the schools it serves. Not only does it expand the access to quality education on a sustainable basis for low-income communities, it has also been a driver of job creation for both skilled and unskilled workers. Since our initial investment, the number of permanent employees has grown from 79 to 158 people. The school also employs c.50 temporary workers.
Land acquired for new schooling facilities also supports Agricultural Science as a subject, enhancing the curriculum and providing fresh produce for the community at minimal cost, whilst offering a safe environment to send children to school.
“Edulife is an example of an African solution for one of our continent’s biggest challenges – how to bring accessible, affordable, relevant education to students across income levels on a sustainable and profitable basis, combining exciting growth prospects with rewarding impact. Edulife’s strong management team brings an exceptional focus on execution, a bold vision, deep care for the community and a profound understanding of how quality education can be achieved in lower income communities. With an attractive return, the growth comes from a scalable model, innovative thinking, entrepreneurial grit and digital enablement.” says Moushmi Patel, Partner at Sanari Capital.
Edulife represents the potential from collaboration between private, commercial investment, social entrepreneurship, public sector support and community, meeting and exceeding the challenges of our times – delivering 100% grade 12 pass rate and 40-60% university admission. The school offers students exposure to sport and cultural experiences which they would not ordinarily have access to in alternative public schools or low-income private schools. During the COVID pandemic the school ensured no child was left behind educationally or from lack of food. With nationwide, and potentially multi-country, opportunity, the schools have brought a sense of pride to their communities.
For a glimpse, see https://www.sanari.co.za/2022/03/01/edulife-and-sanari-delivering-impact-excellence-growth-and-partnership/
In its tenth year, the 2022 PEA Awards recognises accomplishments of key industry players across the African private equity landscape.
The PEA 2022 Awards Gala Dinner was held in London on 20 October 2022.
To access the full list of annual award winners, click here.
