SECUNDA – Sasol Techno X took place last week at the Sasol ChemCity Eco Industrial Park in Carl Bosch Road, Sasolburg.
Thousands of pupils were enthralled by the fascinating world of mathematics, science and technology at this year’s Sasol Techno X.
The opening ceremony, attended by dignitaries and government officials, saw pupils captivated by modern technology and experiments on exhibition, such as the Kalahari Scientist, entertaining Grade 9-12 pupils with mild explosions, chemical reactions and cool experiments.
MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Small Business Enterprises, Mr Msebenzi Zwane, said he was honoured to be part of the 14th Sasol Techno X.
“I am inspired by the proactive and strategic leadership Sasol is taking, in response to the challenges associated with youth development.
“As a science literate society, future generations continue to improve upon modern advances that benefit everyone,” he said.
Mr Jonathan Hartley, a teacher who holds a Bachelor of Science degree, got into his Kalahari Scientist persona to share scientific knowledge taking an interesting and different approach.
“I love to see the pupils’ faces after the demonstrations, it is a look that I experienced many years ago when my passion for science began,” he said.
Another attraction was Doctor Know More, a robotic talking skeleton who answers scientific questions.
For pupils who would like to pursue a career in aviation, there was the Realflight 2000, a simulator that uses both physical and emotional senses.
Pupils also had an opportunity to attend a career guidance lecture to gain insights into various careers, such as flight engineering, ground crew operations and air traffic control.
Techno X, Sasol’s flagship career expo, is the largest career guidance exhibition of its kind in South Africa.
It attracts over 24 000 visitors from seven provinces and pupils from as far as Lesotho.
The aim of the expo is to encourage pupils to explore the wide range of exciting disciplines and career choices that mathematics, science and technology offer.
According to Mr Louis Fourie, Senior Vice President: Sasol Sasolburg, Sasol Techno X visitors will play an important role in the development and growth of the country.
“We want to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects and inspire the next generation of leaders.
“The Sasol Techno X is a platform that will not only benefit Sasol, but the community and industry as a whole,” he said.
For more information about Sasol Techno X, visit www.sasoltechnox.co.za or watch an exciting simulator clip on www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsZDLVyh7L4.
