Oosrand learners win Gauteng’s top spot with recycled ink innovation

Learners from Oosrand School of Specialisation (SoS) secured first place at the Junior Achievement Company Plus Programme, in partnership with Absa Group, held recently at Regent Business School in Johannesburg.

The event formed part of the prestigious JA South Africa Company of the Year (COY) competition at the provincial level.

As part of the programme, learners were tasked with establishing and managing a company under the theme ACT (Actions for Climate Transformation). The SoS learners entered four teams, and one company, Astranova Ventures, claimed first place against strong contenders from other schools.

“They won because of their innovative concept of developing ink for stamps from recycled material. This victory qualifies them to represent both Gauteng and their school at the national competition, scheduled to take place from 8 to 10 October,” said school facilitator Tamzin Abdulrazzaq.

She added that the accomplishment not only highlighted the learners’ innovation and dedication but also reflected the school’s commitment to fostering future-ready entrepreneurs and climate-conscious leaders.
“I am incredibly proud of their achievement and wish them the best at nationals,” she said.

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Keisha Jemane, CEO of Astranova Ventures, said the company was established earlier this year after learning about the competition.
“Our business was formed with the goal of producing ink from recycled materials, and we are so proud to have taken first place. The ink is made by repurposing smoke derived from burning plastic in a controlled process in our school science lab.

“Initially, we brainstormed using the smoke from plastic bottles to make air fresheners, but through research, we discovered it could be used to create ink instead,” Jemane explained.

She acknowledged the team’s resilience, saying: “We had more than 20 recorded failures and many more off-camera, but we never gave up. Today, we are a company of 10 members with a vision to grow further. Our dream is to win nationals, secure investments, purchase a factory, and employ local youth.

“We want to expand into ink cartridges and pens but need sponsors and investors who believe in our mission. We want to show people that our circumstances in our community do not define our future.
“Thank you to our principal and teachers who supported us from the very beginning. To my fellow team members, thank you for your hard work and commitment.”

Abdulrazzaq explained that the JA Company Programme is JA’s flagship initiative that equips high school learners with entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and work readiness skills.
“The initiative empowers youth through practical, hands-on learning that transforms classroom concepts into real-world business ventures. Fifty Grade 10 and 11 learners from Oosrand SoS entered the competition, forming four different companies. The programme developed their entrepreneurial, leadership, project management, and financial literacy skills.”

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