Hoërskool Jeugland learner earns place on 2027 USA academic tour

Hoërskool Jeugland Grade 11 learner Boipelo Selepe was selected for the STADIO Academic Achievers Tour to the United States of America in 2027.

The tour, planned for the September and October school holidays, includes educational experiences, visits, and private lectures at leading universities.

Participants will attend sessions on topics such as AI, international relations, anthropology, global business challenges, economics, and e-commerce.

The invitation highlights opportunities at institutions including MIT, Harvard University, Yale University, Columbia University, and Princeton University.

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Selepe first learned about the opportunity on August 19, when she received the invitation from Travel and Sport through her school.

Selepe said being recognised for her academic commitment meant a great deal to her because it showed her hard work and dedication had been noticed.

It motivated her to continue working towards her goals and reminded her that academic success can open doors to opportunities beyond the classroom.

According to Selepe, visiting these universities could give her a better understanding of the opportunities available to her after school and expose her to different academic environments and career possibilities.

She said seeing these institutions in person could motivate her to aim higher and work even harder towards her goals. It would also help her learn more about international higher education and the skills and qualities needed to succeed in her future career.

“I am most looking forward to experiencing the USA while visiting some of the world’s leading universities. I am excited about seeing what university life and education are like at institutions such as MIT, Harvard, Yale, Columbia, and Princeton.

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“I am also looking forward to meeting other academic achievers, learning from new experiences, and exploring opportunities that could inspire my future career and educational goals,” Selepe expressed.

Selepe is most interested in AI because technology is becoming increasingly important in education, business, and future careers.

She wants to learn how artificial intelligence is changing business operations and how it can solve problems and create opportunities, noting that combining business with positive social impact requires an understanding of AI.

This opportunity matters to Selepe because it represents much more than travelling to another country.
It is an opportunity to expand her knowledge, experience a different educational environment, and see future possibilities she might not otherwise have the chance to explore.

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She added that as someone who works hard academically and has ambitions, visiting leading universities would motivate and inspire her to pursue her goals and help her grow both academically and personally.

The tour comes with financial responsibilities, as the total cost is approximately R92 000. Selepe hopes to raise approximately R46 000 in financial assistance.

Every contribution will bring her closer to achieving her goal.

One of her biggest challenges is raising a significant amount of money as a Grade 11 learner within the required timeframe. However, she is determined to raise the necessary funds because she believes the opportunity will meaningfully impact her education and future.

“I am currently reaching out to individuals, businesses, and organisations to ask for sponsorships, donations, and fundraising support. I am sharing my academic achievement and the details of this opportunity with potential supporters, hoping they will see the value of investing in my education.

“I would appreciate any financial contribution, sponsorship, fundraising opportunity, or assistance in sharing my campaign with others,” Selepe further added.

The funds will cover costs including international flights, accommodation, transport, meals, and other tour-related expenses, enabling her to fully participate in the university visits, lectures, and cultural experiences.

Selepe expressed her sincere gratitude to anyone considering supporting her, noting that their contribution is an investment in her education, personal growth, and future.

If businesses and individuals would like to know more about how they can assist, Boipelo Selepe can be contacted on 060 399 1873.