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Top science whiz kids jet off to London
On 28 June the winners of this 48th round of the competition were awarded at a gala event at the Midrand Conference Centre. "At SAASTA we strongly believe that South Africa has the potential to become a rich source of scientific expertise; but this can only be achieved if the system is fed with a healthy supply of learners and students who have a passion for science and mathematics and the will to excel," Dr Jabu Nukeri, Managing Director of SAASTA said at the event. "Through projects like the National Science Olympiad, one of our flagship projects, we identify and nurture talent to inspire these learners to further their studies in science, engineering and technology (SET) and so increase the SET human capital in the country which will ultimately contribute towards the generation of knowledge," he added. The Olympiad test paper consists of a number of curriculum based and general science and technology questions for learners in grades 10-12. There are two Olympiad papers candidates can select from - Physical Sciences and the Life Sciences. Prizes are awarded to the learners who perform best in various categories of the Olympiad as well as to the top performing schools. Sponsors Harmony Gold Mining Company Ltd (Harmony), one of the largest gold producers in the world is the main sponsor of the competition. Harmony also sponsors participation in the Olympiad of schools in the areas close to their mines, coaching of these learners and their teachers, as well as educational material to assist them to participate and excel in the competition. The Department of Science and Technology sponsors the participation of learners in some of their "adopted" Dinaledi Schools. This year's prizes included laptop and desktop computers, iPods, laboratory equipment and book vouchers, invitations to attend a Science Focus Week in Pretoria, a trip to the UK to attend the London International Youth Science Forum for the top five learners, and participation in the Australian Science Focus Week for two top performers in the lower grades. The 104 best achievers arrived in Pretoria on Monday, 27 June for a week of edutainment and exposure to careers in science and technology. Learners were treated to lectures, excursions and industry visits to a Harmony Gold mine, the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, Necsa, Denel, the Agricultural Research Council, Sci-enza Science Centre, the Johannesburg Observatory, Nissan and Forensic Laboratories. Overall winners The top five learners who will be attending the London International Youth Science Forum are:
The London International Youth Science Forum will take place from 16 - 30 August this year. The Forum brings together over 300 science students from almost 60 countries on the five continents. The learners will participate in a programme of lectures and demonstrations by leading scientists, as well as visits to industrial sites and research facilities. Registration for the 2013 National Science Olympiad will open in October this year and the closing date is 30 January 2013. Please visit www.saasta.ac.za for more information. |
