The next generation of leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is coming up with solutions to the crisis as global temperatures rocket to record highs and the repercussions of climate change force millions of people to flee their homes. Giving students the chance to explore and gain confidence in these fields is crucial if we are to encourage creativity and strive towards resolving humanity’s greatest challenges. With a team from Curro Helderwyk in Gauteng representing South Africa in the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) 2024 finals in Turkey, the demand for dynamic STEM education venues is becoming increasingly apparent on a worldwide scale.
The team from the school was chosen as the winners of the WRO National Event, which took place on September 13 and 14 at Curro Aurora in Randburg. They were among the eleven South African teams that were accepted to the International Finals, which are meant to demonstrate the effectiveness of Curro’s ground-breaking Coding and Robotics Curriculum, which was launched in 2013.
Teams took on the challenge of developing a robotic response to the catastrophic effects of climate change on a worldwide scale for this year’s theme, “Earth Allies.” The winning team, dubbed “Green Guardian,” created a robotic system to safeguard crops from abrupt weather shifts brought on by climate change, so ensuring food security. Their cutting-edge equipment offers real-time weather monitoring to guarantee crop security around-the-clock.
The highly adaptable, solar-powered technology is designed to detect extreme weather conditions and automatically deploys to shield crops from adverse conditions while reducing soil erosion.
One of the team members, Veer Mansingh, is looking forward to meeting other young leaders in STEM and the opportunity to learn new skills. “I love Robotics as it enables me to help engage in the world and contribute to society’s ongoing technological development,” says Mansingh. “I expect to have a fun trip to Turkey while being exposed to new experiences, interacting with other people, gaining more knowledge and learning new techniques.”
Liam Stoop, a different team member, is equally excited about the prospects that robotics has brought about. “I have a strong interest in robotics since it has equipped me with knowledge and abilities that may prove useful in the future. I’ve had fun learning about several facets of robotics, including circuit building, coding, and robot design—all of which were incredibly amazing. I anticipate success in Turkey and am eager to learn more and have new experiences,” he states.
The importance of STEM in creating a resilient future is emphasised by teammate Khanyisile Magangane, who shares his views: “I view robotics as a science and an art that allows for the expression of creativity through innovative solutions.” It gives me the ability to realise my ideas and contribute significantly to society. For many young people, robotics has the potential to open doors, and I hope to be one of those people. We have worked really hard on our proposal, and I am sure that we will do well in the WRO international competition in Turkey.
The team and coach Anais Van Wyk are excited to showcase South Africa’s STEM prowess in the finals, which will take place in Izmir Turkey on November 28 and 30.
