Sol Plaatje University (SPU) played an instrumental role in the recent For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) provincial robotics competition held in Carnarvon. The competition saw 23 teams from the Northern Cape showcase their skills in a setting that highlighted the burgeoning popularity of robotics as an educational tool.
The competition was held from 3 to 5 November. Before then, SPU, in collaboration with SARAO, Tetlanyo High School, Vuyolwethu Secondary School and Technical High School, embarked on two months of intensive training and preparation. This venture was a testament to the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie fostered by SPU.
The First Lego League (FLL) competition aimed to inspire young people in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through a robotics competition that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation. SPU’s involvement was crucial in achieving these objectives. The SPU team – Mrs Eva Mamabolo, Freddie Manyate, Omphemetse Matlhaba and Katlego Mmatladi – played a pivotal role in guiding and preparing the three Kimberley teams for various aspects of the competition, including the Robot Game, Robot Design, and the Innovation Project.
This year’s competition theme, ‘Masterpiece’, invited learners to blend technology and the arts to demonstrate their different strengths. SPU mentors, including Mrs Eva Mamabolo, Lesedi Molusi, Itumeleng Masiteng, Freddie Manyate, Omphemetse Matlhaba, Katlego Mmatladi guided the learners in exploring this intersection, helping them develop innovative projects that combined these fields.
The innovation projects by participating schools were particularly notable:
- Tetlanyo High: Learners used augmented reality (AR) to enhance reading and the arts.
- Vuyolwethu Secondary: Students created an AI-powered audiobook, making literature more accessible.
- Technical High: One team used holographic technology for museums, while another developed an AI-powered brain chip for music accessibility.
SPU’s contribution to the competition extended beyond mentorship to judging, ensuring a fair and inspiring environments for all participants.
Dr Patricia Gouws from the Unisa Science Engagement Centre highlighted the progress in robotics education in the region, with plans to host future events at SPU and Carnarvon. This initiative aligns with SPU’s goals to broaden digital skills and STEM education.
SPU’s enduring dedication to excellence in robotics is evident in their consistent achievements in both the World Robotics Olympiad and the FLL competition. These accomplishments reflect the university’s commitment to laying a strong educational foundation for learners in Kimberley, igniting a passion for coding and robotics.
Looking to the future, SPU remains committed to fostering growth in STEM fields, empowering learners, and sparking a lasting enthusiasm for technology and robotics. The collaboration with SARAO highlights this dedication, promising to nurture the next generation of innovators and problem solvers in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
