A second-year IIE Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences in Game Design and Development student at The Vega School at Emeris uMhlanga took top honours at the recent “AVOID: Score Attack!” gaming event in uMhlanga.

Saturn Kozlowski outperformed fellow tertiary students and local high school competitors to secure first place, earning a R3000 cash prize and a R750 voucher from event sponsor, The Big Bang Shop.

She said the winnings would go towards her student loan.

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“I had so much fun. I didn’t expect to win and still can’t believe it,” Kozlowski said, adding that she balanced practice sessions with academic commitments. She achieved a final score of 6 008, surpassing her previous best of 5 000.

The competition, hosted in partnership with Donderbos Games, focused on AVOID, an indie title developed by lecturer Henk Scheepers. Participants competed in a high-score format, with the top 10 progressing from qualifying rounds to the finals.

Ivan Williams, a third-year student in the same programme, placed second, receiving R1500 and a R500 voucher. Despite leading the qualifiers, he said he was disappointed not to win but valued the experience.

Durban High School (DHS) recorded the highest overall school score, earning a R1000 Takealot voucher. Learners from several schools participated, with some experiencing competitive gaming for the first time.

Grade 11 pupil Lindelwa Zondi described the event as an enjoyable introduction to gaming, while Danville Park Girls’ High School learner Sonakshi Hariparsad highlighted the friendly atmosphere.

DHS pupils Ashton Williams and Revan Pillay, who both reached the finals, said the competition rewarded their preparation and motivated them to improve.

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