Kagiso learners win R100k at science fair

Mandisa Shiceka School of Specialisation from Kagiso took home an impressive R100 000 for presenting an automated hydroponic structure that grows food without soil.

The Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition was held at the Kopanong Hotel and Conferencing Centre in Benoni where learners from various other schools showcased their science skills.

Principal Mkhulu Skhosana explained that Solve for Tomorrow is Samsung’s corporate social investment initiative.

“It is an ambitious effort to increase interest and proficiency in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Also, to help the country contribute to the economy and help communities all together through innovative thinking, creative problem-solving and teamwork may form part of what the competition seeks to encourage among the learners as they learn important skills that could benefit them in their future careers.”

Learner Malcolm Makhute was among five learners who had a hand in the project. He said that it only took a month to build the prototype using only a variety of recycled products. However, it took months of research, hard work and finding suitable designs for their vision.

Makhosazana Mazibuko confirmed that the vision of the project was to identify a solution for residents the grow food without wasting water and eroding soil.

”We came into the competition with a strong belief that we would win because we believe in our idea as a great solution – that’s the attitude that the entire team carried until the end. We believe our prototype can resolve many of the food security issues our community faces and save the environment by providing alternative eco-friendly solutions,” he said.

Learner Siyabonga Moila added they look forward to their next goal.

“What we hope to do following our success is to build on what we achieved and improve the machine. We hope to create models that people can use and provide more affordable solutions to improving food security and agriculture.”