Limpopo learner explores Antarctica in environmental expedition
Khanyisa Education Centre's Ntokozo Nkuna was selected for a Students in Antarctica expedition after designing an underwater robot to help rescue fish from coral reefs.
LIMPOPO – Young and talented Ntokozo Nkuna recently flew the Giyani and Limpopo flag high on the coldest continent in the world, Antarctica.
Nkuna, a Khanyisa Education Centre learner, was named one of five learners selected through an environmental competition aimed at identifying the next generation of changemakers. The initiative, Students in Antarctica, was founded by world explorer Riaan Manser and is open to Gr 11 learners from across Africa.
As part of his selection, Nkuna presented an innovative project, an underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) robot designed to help rescue fish entangled in coral reefs.
Although the project still requires further refinement, he worked on it alongside his robotics team and schoolmates, known as the Beast Morphers.
The top five learners departed for Antarctica from Cape Town, where they were also allowed to meet and engage with Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
Nkuna described the Antarctica expedition as one of the most incredible experiences of his life.
“Some of the unforgettable moments included camping on snowy mountain slopes and building walls of ice blocks for privacy when using bucket toilets,” he said. “Another highlight was attending lectures inside an igloo about the ocean surrounding Antarctica and the delicate ecosystems found there.”
Now a Gr 12 learner, Nkuna said the trip also taught him perseverance. One of the most challenging moments was completing his first 21km marathon during the expedition.
Throughout the journey, the learners were guided by a range of educators, including marine biologist Kirshia Govender, environmental lawyer Justin Truter, and marine conservation biologist Michael Markovina.
Nkuna said he formed a strong bond with the other four learners, Luke Boswell from Gqeberha, Naethan Mol from Cape Town, Aaminah Choonarah from Lenasia Muslim School, and Allegra Meelane from Durban.
The five learners have since established Eco Groups SA, an initiative aimed at partnering with other environmental organisations and raising awareness about environmental challenges facing South Africa.
