Mbombela young minds turn ideas into impact in a science competition
Grade Eight and Nine learners from Mpumalanga showcased their talents at a science school competition that was held at Lowveld National Botanical Garden.
The spirit of innovation and scientific curiosity filled the education centre at the Lowveld National Botanical Garden last Wednesday, March 11 as learners gathered for the first regional School Science Competition for the Crocodile Sub-Catchment.
Seven schools from across the City of Mbombela showcased innovative science projects under the theme, “Water’s role in gender equality.”
The Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency (IUCMA), in collaboration with the Department of Water and Sanitation and other partners, hosted the competition as part of National Water Month celebrations.
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During the competition, pupils proudly presented science models addressing water-related challenges affecting communities. Their projects explored solutions such as water filtration, water management, groundwater access, water purification systems, improving water equality, and methods of collecting underground water.
The competition previously focused only on Grade 11 and 12 pupils, but this year it was expanded to include Grade Eight and Nine learners, with the aim of sparking scientific curiosity at an earlier stage and building a stronger foundation for future innovators.
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Top honours went to Lihawu Secondary School, whose project impressed the judges. Chief Funwako Secondary School finished in second place, while Portia Shabangu Secondary School secured third place.
Speaking to the learners, social scientist for catchment and institutional development at IUCMA, Hasani Makhubela, said the competition highlighted the potential of young minds to contribute meaningful solutions to real-world problems.
Makhubela also encouraged collaboration and unity within the teams.
The top-performing teams will have another opportunity to showcase their scientific ideas when they compete again on March 26, where they are expected to demonstrate further innovative solutions to water challenges.
