Let Kidz Code empowers South Africa’s future Stem leaders in Sandton
The Let Kidz Code event in Sandton showed the need for continued partnerships between NGOs and the education sector in advancing robotics education in South Africa.
The third annual Let Kidz Code event, a joint initiative between STET and ORT South Africa, took place recently in Sandton.
This event celebrated the growth of young talent in coding and robotics.
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According to Ariellah Rosenberg, CEO of ORT South Africa, the event brought together educators, students, learners and industry leaders to highlight the importance of Stem (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education in South Africa, particularly for young girls.
Since its launch in 2017, the Let Kidz Code programme has also aimed to empower black South African female teachers, equipping them with the skills to inspire the next generation of learners.
“To date, nearly 4 000 students have benefitted from the programme. This year, the programme supported 25 teachers and 102 Grade 7 learners, with an impressive 71% female participation. These students, who began learning to code in Grade 5, have honed their skills in areas like the Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics,” said Rosenberg.
The event showcased a variety of innovative projects by the students and learners.
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Ebony Park Primary School claimed the Judges’ Choice Award with their Automated Laundry Rack, while Rebonwe Primary School won the Audience Choice Award for their Road Obstacle Detector, a project that demonstrates the learners’ creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Rosenberg addressed the role of coding and robotics in shaping future innovators at the event.
“Through coding and robotics, we turn imagination into innovation, empowering minds to build the future one line of code and one circuit at a time.”
Ursula Lebuso, a trustee of STET, said, “We need more black women in Stem, not just as role models but as pioneers.”
Lubuso added every young girl in South Africa deserved to see herself reflected in the faces of those shaping the future.
Dr Ntombikayise Nkosi, from the University of South Africa’s Department of Educational Foundation, also spoke about the transformative impact of technology in education.
“Robotics and coding are more than just technology. They are a pathway for learners to develop critical skills in problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork.”
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