Local Crawford student to compete in chemistry olympiad in Zurich

Senthan Naicker says he’s excited and ready to participate in this year’s International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) in Zurich, Switzerland.

The 18-year-old matriculant at Crawford International School in Lukasrand will be one of the more than 900 participants, mentors and volunteers from approximately 90 countries expected to attend.

The IChO is scheduled to take place from 16 – 25 July.

“It was completely unexpected, I noted that email and looked through the list not expecting to see my name.

“I then decided to see who made the team and was completely surprised to see my name. I spent the next few minutes jumping on my mum’s bed in absolute joy,” Naicker remarked when he got the news.

“My family and parents were overjoyed and immensely proud. My friends and teachers cried.

“I intend to do my best, I am keeping my expectations at bay. I want to make the most of the experience, learn, network and just enjoy the full experience.”

Naicker said that this is the first international competition that he has ever participated in and preparation hasn’t come without its challenges.

“Balancing school work and prep for the competition, being in Grade 12, has not been easy. My pressure is not to let everyone down.”

While on his way to participate in a chemistry competition, Naicker said his true passions are for other subjects outside of chemistry.

“Interestingly, I have little passion for chemistry. My actual love is physics and math, so I was surprised when I made the top 4.”

Naicker also remarked that changes to school syllabuses may improve learning science, saying that he would like to see more practical and hands-on work.

While his post-matric plans are not set in stone, Naicker said he has an idea of the field he would like to venture into.

“That’s still up for discussion, I have many aspirations but don’t want to jinx them but hopefully something in engineering and physics.”

Crawford has expressed delight at Naicker’s achievement and wishes him all the best at IChO.

He thanked his teachers Ms Mamabolo and Mr Mitten, his sister for inspiring him, his parents for allowing him to flourish and himself for the hard work that was put in.

He hopes that this milestone will inspire his fellow youth to pursue their dreams.

“Seize every opportunity that comes your way, you never know what’s on the other side, until you try,” Naicker concluded.

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