Mdzimba Primary School claimed the top prize at the first-ever National Technology, Coding and Robotics Olympiad, held at Kopanong Conference Centre in Benoni, Gauteng on December 3. The school took first place in the provincial Olympiad in September, qualifying for the national competition.

At the national level the learners showed exceptional prowess, creativity and skill in coding and robotics.

The school principal, Ethel Phiri, said she is very proud of the learners and their achievement, adding that when they arrived in Gauteng, they were well prepared and delivered as planned.

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“These learners managed to assemble their robot in just three minutes. The requirements in the national competition were more stringent, but they understood what was expected of them. In the provincial competition they only had to assemble the robot, while at the nationals they were given scenarios to complete and instructions to follow.”

Phiri said these learners have made a name for their school, being the very first to win this title.

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“They did not win for themselves, this is for everyone and the future Grade Seven learners.”

Gerald Sambo, the spokesperson for the Department of Education, said this outstanding performance brings great honour to both their school and the province.

“As part of their prize, the school will received a fully equipped coding and robotics hub, sponsored by UNICEF. This hub will be installed at the school and will provide world-class resources to enhance teaching, inspire curiosity and deepen learners’ understanding of coding and robotics for years to come,” he said.