Mandisa Shiceka High School Triumphs in 2024 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Competition
A remarkable celebration of young innovation took place recently as Mandisa Shiceka High School from Krugersdorp, Gauteng, emerged as the winner of the prestigious 2024 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow schools competition. The event was held on October 2nd at the Aha Kopanong Hotel and Conferencing Centre in Benoni, Johannesburg, where students from various schools showcased their groundbreaking projects aimed at addressing real-life community challenges.
Mandisa Shiceka took first place, standing out among nine other finalists, while Mbilwi Secondary School from Venda, Limpopo, secured second place, and Adam’s College from Amanzimtoti, KwaZulu-Natal, came in third. The competition invigorates students, motivating them to harness their creativity and problem-solving skills in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition is not only about winning but also serves as a vital platform for Grade 10 and 11 learners from underrepresented communities. The initiative, in partnership with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), empowers these students to engage with real-world challenges through innovative solutions, ultimately paving the way for them to explore future careers in STEM fields.
The journey culminated in Mandisa Shiceka receiving a R100,000 cash prize to enhance their STEM facilities, while Mbilwi Secondary and Adam’s College walked away with R50,000 and R30,000, respectively. This funding is intended to purchase essential STEM equipment, ensuring that students have the necessary tools to expand their experimental learning. To top off their triumph, each participant from the top three schools was awarded a brand-new Samsung Galaxy device.
The innovative project developed by Mandisa Shiceka’s team involved the creation of an automated hydroponic structure designed to enhance local food security. Faced with challenges in their township of Kagiso—predominantly an area with mining activities affecting soil and water quality—the students proposed a sustainable farming solution utilizing greenhouses, rainwater, and borehole water. Team member Makhosazana Mazibuko expressed her confidence, stating, “We came into the competition with a strong belief that we would win because we believe in our idea as a great solution.”
Guided by their dedicated teacher Nonki Motlogelwa, the students navigated the pressures of competition with resilience and creativity. “This is especially rewarding as it was our first attempt,” she remarked.
The event was further positively highlighted by Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Makgabo Mhaule, who recognized the efforts of all participating learners, stating, “Every learner and school that participated in the Solve for Tomorrow competition is a winner… This initiative demonstrates what social responsibility should be.”
Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow is more than just a competition; it is a significant facet of their corporate social responsibility program aimed at inspiring innovative thinking and fostering problem-solving skills among the youth. With initiatives like these, the future appears bright for South African students striving to make a difference in their communities through technology and creativity.
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