HOLA First:
Then:
See y’all in 2024
Hola MaHigh-School Volume 12, Issue 11 November 2023
Contents Nove Features 11 12-13 22 24-25 26-27 28-29 38-39 40-43
Exam and holidays Exam tips - good to know Adrenaline rush anyone? What to do - Free State Vegan Christmas Christmas traditions Gap year - still on the cards What to do - lots of things
Science 18-19 34-37 46-49 50-53
Immersive escape rooms AI in games development My new running shoes My new clothes
ember 2023
Every Time 06-07 54-55 56-57 58-59 62
Editor’s Letter Christmas Carols - this time It is movie time December - not just ... Next issue
The ‘stuff’ 02-03 08-09 10 60-61
Exam Calendar Contributors Holler at us We need writers
Summer - a Last one fo Summer and exams! The two things always interlinked. First the 7 lean years and then the 7 fat years. Or the other way around? Anyway, we have a few exam tips for you. You have probably heard it all before, but hey, we have to go through this. So here it is! But summer and holidays? that is something else. We have given you a few things that you might want to do this year. The biggest ‘hit’ this year are immersive escape rooms. This craze has swamped the rest of the world and has now landed on our
shores. Look and enticing
Christmas ce What about a or meat? cou
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We also have fabric. Yes, th something ne with being ‘g
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Good Read -
Hola is here to give you a break from a We are also serious, but it is now call
Editor’s letter
and Exams or the year at what it is. Both frightening - I think.
elebrations are at hand as well. a vegan Christmas? no turkey uld be worth a try.
n the Christmas carols from world!
e a bit of science: shoes and his is real science and it is ew to consider. It also goes green’ so it is OK.
w through with more on AI. in games development.
- Until 2024!
all the school stuff. led edutainment.
Sybil Otterstrom Editor and CEO
Want to be a contributor? Wanting to write like a pro?
WE
You CAN! look firther and see how you can become one.
are the
Contributors
... and it is a good feeling to entertain and inform.
Masiziba Hadebe is doing her Master’s in Agricultural Economics at the University of the Free State (UFS). She is driven to make a change and is a passionate volunteer for community projects. She loves reading and writing about science, agriculture and anything in between. She believes you can wear a smile whatever the weather! My name is Lerato Pitso. I am from Maseru, Lesotho. I am a Sociology and Criminology student at UFS and Miss Supranational Lesotho 2023. When I’m not a model and a student, I write about my philosophies on life as well as expressing my feelings on paper. I hope that my views will aid in the social development of the next person. And we are honoured to also have industry-views from: Edith Wynne-Trollip: - Curriculum Support and advise, Overberg District Nadia Hearn - Founder of Get-Published Ashalia Maharajh: - Founder & Director, Sivuka Consulting (Pty) Ltd Thozamile Mvumvu: - CFE Programme Manager, False Bay TVET Daniel Roos - Account Executive, Transform Marketing
Artvilla Dakamela, 22, another wizard from the literature world, he is an Accounting student at the University of the Free State. He has written for the Initiative for Creative African Narratives (iCAN) amongst others. He currently resides in Durban KZN - and is a very enthusiastic reader and writer.
My name is Molatelo Kate Kgatla, I’m 24 years old. I was born and raised in Lenyenye. I’m a grade 2 teacher at Vunza Teddy Bear Learning Academy, an author of a book titled her jouney as a young mother. I became a mother at 17. It influenced me to write about my personal journey to try and help someone that could be going through the same. I love writing and I love my 7 year old daughter and life. Lesly Malose Mahapa is a singer/writer/poet. He started writing at the age of 14 and has since been on a journey to pursue his music and writing career. Lesly is currently working with an indie group ‘MozSouth’ based in Ivory park, Midrand. Lesly is also a brand ambassador for a local clothing line “Boi Boi apparel”
HOLLER AT US
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Editor & Publisher Sybil Otterstrom sybil@romele.co.za Advertising sales Next level Management services cc 011 614 5046 076 360 1792 sybil@next-level.co.za Publishing Romele Publications cc 32 Eleanor street Troyeville 2094 011 614 5046/076 360 1792
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Exams and holidays This is it for this year – we know because it is summer and we are getting to exams season. We have provided a few tips for exams. Never mind you have heard it all before. The only things we really would like to ‘harp’ on are simple things: Prepare – and that is more than just doing revisions. Get to understand what the exam situation is all about. You have to sit down for a few hours and use your brain. Make sure you have a bit of water along. Understand the questions and what is expected of you. Take your time to read it all through. Summer Holidays: We have looked at some adrenaline-things for you. There are plenty of things to do. Half of it would scare me anyway, but maybe you are more courageous. We look at horse riding (I can do that), abseiling (no!), a trip in a glider, soaring above earth (maybe), roller skating (yes!), Sanpark mini-rangers (maybe) and a lot more. Look on and get the rush – if you dare.
Exam tips: Just b There are plenty of things to look out for. Getting to the exam hall is only one of them. Preparing is actually also needed. What to do? Get there on time and know where it is. Obvious! But hey, if the school has more than one hall for exams, are you at the right place? And just get there on time. If you use transport, make sure it leaves you enough time for ‘disasters’. Eat something before exams. I can’t my stomach is a big knot. Well, yes maybe, but your brain will need the energy – and the right mix for that matter – so just loosen the knot a bit, sit down and get cereals, tuna (Omega 3) or a slice of chicken breast. Fruit is excellent as well. Chop an apple in yoghurt. At least something! Sure, Tuna is the better option and tin tuna is fine. Expensive? Hey, how many exams are you going for? Water during exams: No need to have a whole bucket of water. You are not going to wash there. BUT you have to stay hydrated. The brain works far better if the entire body is hydrated. So get a few bottles to take along. Oh yes, and leave the fizzy drinks. They actually dehydrate you. Water is fine, leave the rest! Did you bring a calculator? An extra pencil? A pen. Just one? The one which will die on you? Take an extra one along. Get the logistics right. Practical clothing is essential. Cold? Hot? An extra jersey? Shoes too
before you walk in tight? Make sure that whatever you wear will not occupy your mind. You cannot afford to focus on being cold or hot or anything else but the exam paper.
All-night preparation and cramming time or go early to bed the night before? Up to you. I think that is a choice and a habit more than anything. But be aware: your brain will have to work 100% next morning. Can it do that if you have not even had a kip? Maybe yes, if exam is just continuation of the night, but will you never go tired then? Choose wisely! As they say in Harry Potter. … and now we get to the actual exam!
Exam tips: Ok, now let us see. You have made it to the right place, on time, and have gallons of water, food, extra pencils and, well yes, all of it. Now sitting down, waiting. Like this is the Olympics and you are Caster. “turn the pages and begin..you have 4 hours…” or something similar.
moment!
Panic, the sinking feeling of it all, the cold sweat breaking out, the heart rate going up, the collar too tight, hands shaking. It is NOW where the entire future of the universe will be decided. Aliens or Illuminati will invade if I don’t get it right, this
RELAX! Here is what we recommend: First of all: Aliens and Illuminati will not arrive today. It is scheduled for next year, we believe.
easy one’s?
Now, take your time to do some planning of those few hours you sit there. READ it through, all of it. Make notes. What is easy to do, what is difficult? Are there a range of questions? What is the total score of the
Now you will know which one’s you can quickly do and what is then outstanding for passing this one test. Set time aside for the semi-difficult one’s.
It is NOW! Identify the one which you might not be able to do. See how much it will cost you not to do it, but use the time to do more of the other one’s. NOW you know perfectly well where to start. You have made a budget of the test. Time to spend on the individual questions and the weight of those. Now stick to it. If an easy one turns out to be not so easy, skip it. Get to the next one. You might just find that some of the other one’s will save you time, and voila, you are back on track. And the really difficult one’s? what if I don’t get to them? We trust you will have scored enough points on the easy one’s to make it up, but if not? “Houston, we have a problem”. You have to have some extra time to grasp the nettle and get on with the difficult stuff. No escape there. For every question, just spend a few seconds to structure (in your mind or on a piece of paper) how you will answer it. It is called thinking and it is the way to success. To think that is. Drink plenty of water, have a snack and enjoy exams!
Exam tips: after exa This is mind-games. Prepare and declutter your brain. If you want to read up on more for the next exam, by all means. BUT it is important to get the mind-set right. That means something simple: Don’t think about the last exam. Get all the ‘old’ notes and books away. They will clutter your works pace. Here is a trick: a clotted workspace WILL clutter your mind. You cannot afford that. So, clean up and clean out. Get yourself in a good mood. Take a day out with friends. You should anyway have prepared so well for the next exam that you can afford it. Otherwise we are into :”Houston, we have a problem”. Eat proper food. It is amazing how much food – the right stuff – will mean to you. The synapses will have to fire some days into the future and there are foods that will help you here. Omega-3, vitamins, proteins and all things. HOWEVER, it is also important to look at food and not at supplements. Supplements might give you a boost. But is it sustainable? If you put junk in the trunk, there is a good chance that you will think junk. So, skip the burger for this period. Do something better. The additional time it takes to prepare a meal might give you a bit of relaxation and might
ams, before the next just give you the energy sources required. Exercise is great. Don’t do a Marathon, but just get to walk or maybe run. Don’t overdo it either, but just ensure that you get out of the house and get to ‘stretch the legs’ a bit. Party is after exams. Not in the middle of the battle for grades. There is nothing to celebrate before the fat lady sings. Sleep is just as important. It is the brain’s only chance to regenerate itself. And the brain is indeed very active. It is ‘cleaning house’ (chemicals are going) and new connections are made as well as getting rid of old stuff. Help the brain a bit! Get enough sleep. Do you know that the brain only accounts for 5% of the body weight but takes 20% of the oxygen? Help your brain a bit! The brain is working in mysterious ways, so it is also an idea to look at ways of remembering things. Ways to improve concentration. It sounds like magic, but these are simple things to utilise. ... and remember: Exams can be fun! It is all in your mind.
Escape into the thrilling world of immersive escape room experiences Have you ever dreamt of stepping into a world of mystery, adventure, and mind-bending puzzles? Look no further than the immersive live escape room craze that has been sweeping across the globe, and which is taking South Africa by storm! Escape rooms are not just games; they’re full-blown adventures that challenge your intellect, communication skills, and nerves when against the clock. Picture yourself and your friends, locked in a themed room, surrounded by enigmatic clues, cryptic riddles, and intricate puzzles that will leave you both puzzled and delighted. Your mission? To escape within a set time by solving the mysteries hidden within. It’s like being the star of your very own action-packed movie! Get ready for mind boggling fun as you decode ancient symbols to uncover hidden treasures, crack complex ciphers to thwart a cyberattack, or unravel the secrets of a haunted mansion. The heart-pounding challenges and adrenaline-pumping time limits make every moment count. And let’s not forget the bonding experience
– escape rooms are an ideal way to strengthen friendships, build teamwork, and create unforgettable memories. What are immersive experiences? Immersive experiences have revolutionised the entertainment industry by engaging their customers on a deeper level. They offer personalised, interactive storytelling, expanding the content ecosystem with VR, AR, and location-based experiences. This evolution creates new revenue streams and innovative marketing approaches, making entertainment more accessible and engaging for everyone. At its core, immersive experiences have an engaging storyline with a compelling narrative that captivates you from the moment you enter the escape room, creating a sense of purpose and intrigue. They also have realistic set designs encompassing high-quality, detailed, and thematically consistent props and décor that transport you to another world and enhance the immersion. The use of thematic puzzles, including a variety of interesting and challenging problem-solving elements and which are consistent with the theme and setting of each room also add a level of interest. A well-crafted game can evoke emotions, builds tension, and enhances the overall experience. “The objective is to make players feel like they are truly part of the story and environment. We do this by creating the right ambiance using lighting, sound effects, music, and even scents which transport you into the world of the game,” says Dino Paulo, the co-founder of HintHunt Africa, the leader in top immersive escape room experiences in Africa.
What the Buzz Is All About “Escape rooms are more than just puzzles; they’re a journey,” says Paulo. “We see groups of friends celebrating birthdays, families reconnecting, and corporate teams strengthening their bonds – all through the immersive escape room experience. The sense of accomplishment and euphoria participants feel when they solve a puzzle and escape within the time limit is simply unparalleled.” Critical to the escape room experience lies gamification – the art of applying game elements and principles to nongame contexts. Gamification transforms the simple act of problem-solving into an engaging adventure, with challenges becoming quests, clues becoming achievements, and teamwork becoming the key to victory. Organisations also use gamification to engage and educate teams and customers through rewards, challenges, and competitions in training, onboarding, sales, customer service, loyalty programs, health apps, feedback, innovation, and community building. It’s a dynamic way to make learning and problem-solving both entertaining and rewarding.
Unveiling the South African Sensation South Africa has not been immune to the enchantment of immersive escape rooms. The country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for a variety of thrilling escape room themes, ranging from ancient mysteries to modern espionage. In Cape Town, keen adventurers have been gathering to test their intellect and courage at HintHunt Africa, since the company launched in 2013. Over the years, HintHunt Africa has crafted twenty different escape room experiences, including nine at their current location at the Watershed, V&A Waterfront in the Cape Town CBD. “Our teams always value the quality of the products we bring to our customers and have always put a huge amount of effort into the intricate details of all our escape rooms to create as much immersion as possible. We like to think that we have an escape room for every taste and we are always pushing the envelope of what we can achieve. Our new escape rooms are a testament to this,” concludes Paulo. Whether you’re a puzzle enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or simply looking for a unique way to spend time with loved ones, the immersive escape rooms are perfect for one and all. Break free from the ordinary, embrace the extraordinary, and uncover the mysteries that await. For more infomation or to book your favourite escape room go to hinthunt.co.za.
What is it really all about? Let us look at the ‘mechanics’: • Gives your muscles a boost of energy • Makes you breathe faster • Increases your heart rate. • Sends blood to your muscles A rush of adrenaline is what gives you the ability to dodge out of the way of an oncoming car before you’ve had a chance to even think about it. Although adrenaline has an evolutionary purpose, some people take part in certain activities for the adrenaline rush. Activities that can cause an adrenaline rush include: • • • • • • •
watching a horror movie skydiving cliff jumping bungee jumping cage diving with sharks zip lining white water rafting
… and those are the things we have described for an active holiday!
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR CAREER Knowing yourself and your capabilities
Choo se Subj your ects
Care Plan er ning
eer Car ice o ch
For you to pursue your career choice.
You need to pass your Nationa l Senior Certi ficate!
The Eastern Ca pe Department of Education enco urages learners to choose suitable career path, by collecting inform ation that will he lp them pursue their career / field of study.
“it is in your hands “ - Nelson Rolihl
ahla Mandela
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What to do in the Free State Free State is not just a piece of flat land to traverse when driving from Cape Town to JoBurg. There is a lot more to Free State. We found some rather ‘adrenaline pumping’ things for you to do. But be aware – this is outdoor fun, the big adventure, the courageous trip, the … well, look on and be amazed. It is all from here Holiday Farm Why not combine all of it in one go: Wyndford Holiday Farm offers hiking, abseiling, zip lining and horse riding near Fouriesburg in the Eastern Free State of South Africa. A family owned and run guest farm since the 1920s, we are surrounded by the Rooiberge and the Maluti Mountains in the Eastern Free State Highlands, at the heart of South Africa. We are situated on the the border of Lesotho, only 5km of the Caledon River between us. This is farm fun at its most wholesome, where everyone in the family can
participate. We also have activities for the extremely adventurous. When conditions are right, we float down the river on tractor tubes, abseil down one of our large rock faces, and zoom down our 50-metre zip line in the forest. Our horse rides amble through the beautiful sandstone mountains for up to 1.5 hours, with shorter led rides for the less adventurous. We also have 18 guided hikes on the farm, ranging from 1.5 to 17km, as well as many different trail running and (own) mountain bike routes. Gliding holiday. Why be so earth bound? The sky is the limit, so why not go there! Soaring Safaris: Warm weather, high cloud bases, fast tasks and a great club atmosphere. Soaring Safaris, provides glider hire, aero-tow launches and a complete support infrastructure to ensure that you have an unforgettable holiday soaring the high, wide and open skies of South Africa. In the early 80’s Bloemfontein was used for record camps and some of the first 1000kms flown in South Africa were flown from Bloemfontein. The flying area is vast, and varied with few restricted areas. We fly west to clear the Bloemfontein TMA, there after we can fly south and south west into the dry areas of the northern Karoo or north west right up to South Africa’s border with Botswana or we can fly east to the Maluti Mountains and the northern Drakensburg. The scenery in this area is magnificent. Enjoy the adrenaline
Christmas lunch - Tradition! Why must it always bee the same? Turkey, beetroot, rice and all the other things. (sources: a lot of websites!) It need not be like that! We can do so much more – different at least! Here is a novel idea: meat-less Christmas! No turkey, beef, lamb, pork or anything like that. Welcome to the:
Hola Vegan Christmas! There are now so many other things to do, so we have put a menu together. It is easy to do and tasty. Better than the turkey – trust me! Starters: we need a nice starter: Salt-baked root vegetables with labneh Cooking with salt in this way ensures that the vegetables are cooked evenly and gently, and will yield a beautifully soft texture once cooked. The
labneh is topped with a za’atar pesto for a kick of fresh flavour – perfect for dipping! Main course: we know beef wellington? OK, here is a twist: Mushroom wellington. You want 3 to 4 large portobello mushrooms for this recipe. Try to pick mushrooms that are about the same diameter so you don’t end up with a lumpy bumpy portobello wellington. The cooked mushrooms (oil! Until nicely browned and glazed) are then layered with cooked baby spinach (chard works well here too) and caramelized onions. Oven at 200 degrees and all of it in the pastry and let it bake for some 30 minutes. Dessert: Super food sweet potato fries Ok, this is actually the dessert I am going to make for Christmas. I imagine a huge plate in the middle of the table and then there will be this huge mess of sweet potato fries drizzled with chocolate. What to drink with it: I recommend green tea
Merry (Vegan) Christmas
Christmas is very traditional. But there are many different traditions around. Let us look at the world with a few examples: Germany: St Nicholas Day is a favorite holiday with German children. On the night of December 5, children clean and polish their boots and leave them outside the door before going to sleep. Next morning, they find their shoes filled with nuts, candy, and small gifts from St Nicholas. No candy in the stocking at the fireplace!. (source: https://theculturetrip.com/europe/germany/articles/15-christmas-traditions-only-germans-will-understand/) France: Postcards from Père Noël Letters from French kids to Father Christmas don’t just disappear into dustbins or drawers in France. Since 1962, France has had a law that stipulates any letter to Santa must be responded to in the form of a postcard. The law has no doubt helped boost the myth of Santa Claus among French kids, although it’s doubtful the postmen themselves appreciate all the extra work. (source: https://alpinefrenchschool.com/blog/ some-french-christmas-traditions/)
China: In China, Christmas has not always been a publicly celebrated religious holiday. However, as China becomes more global, it has started to welcome a commercialized version of Christmas, known as “Sheng Dan Jieh” or the “Holy Birth Festival,” One of the most popular Chinese Christmas traditions is to hang beautiful paper lanterns indoors, outdoors, and strung around the plastic Christmas tree, which is called “Tree of Light”. (source: https://christmas.lovetoknow.com/chinese-christmas-traditions) Ethiopia: Ethiopia is one of the oldest nations in Africa. It still follows the ancient Julian calendar, so Ethiopians celebrate Christmas on January 7. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church’s celebration of Christ’s birth is called Ganna. The day before Ganna, people fast all day. The next morning at dawn, everyone dresses in white. Most Ethiopians don a traditional shamma, a thin, white cotton wrap with brightly colored stripes across the ends. The shamma is worn somewhat like a toga.
Twelve days after Ganna, on January 19, Ethiopians begin the three-day celebration called Timkat, which commemorates the baptism of Christ. (Source: https://people.howstuffworks.com/culture-traditions/holidays-christmas/christmas-traditions-around-the-world-ga4.htm) It is not just 25 December and over and done with!
New Exhibitions
We added two new exhibitions to our collection on the floor. The 4IR and Mirror Maze exhibitions
4IR Exhibition The 4IR exhibition currently hosts the Humanoids (two small ones and the big one called Pepper), Virtual reality Station, Augmented Reality and the interactive displays integrated with of a number of TV screens. This concept is through the touch screen located at the entrance to the center. Interactive display section has been created where visitors are encouraged to use traditional touch screens to immerse themselves in games and content around Science Technology Engineering and Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
Children are provided with the opportunity to play games to train their analytical ability, improve their ability to solve puzzles and chal-
lenges. They are also challenged to explore more traditional content style, such as exploration of subjects including how Artificial Intelligence works, Machine Learning, how data transfers over networks etc. Science Exploration While traditional science teaching has complex challenges around logistics, safety and costs. VR has none of these limitations. Experiments are done as often as needed with no physical costs of materials or safety concerns. Students can learn about physics and chemistry, life science etc. in a safe environment. Within VR learning occurs without any distract but with full immersion. Learning and understanding mathematics becomes easier and more fun inside of VR due to the nature of games and how they are designed. This is designed to make learning and exploration real fun especially for little ones. Wide learning opportunities exist through this exhibition, children have many prospects to learn on, e.g. google earth exploration experience. With Google Earth VR, children can travel to almost any place in the world. They can fly all over the world and explore any city, any monument and landmark anywhere in the world.The exhibition has two different types of humanoids the small one (called Sanbot Max and the Bigger one called Pepper). The Sanbot Max robot was designed to be implemented into numerous kinds of business scenarios, providing customers and staff members with intelligent and efficient services. Pepper is a semi-humanoid robot, which means that a human has to control it. It is designed with the ability to read emotions. Pepper recognizes faces and basic human emotion.
Drones and Mirror Maze Drones Pilots at the Clubhouse Did you know that the Clubhouse has three certified drone pilots? They also have 10 DJI Tell drones that they will used for their drone course. They are currently putting together content for the said course. In addition, the Clubhouse offers programmes such as Teach Fundamentals of drones, real-life applications of drones: namely surveillance using object identification and tracking to videography for commercials and other media use. This includes python programming that covers drone automation.
Mirror Maze Exhibit A mirror is an object that reflects an image. Light that bounces off a mirror will show an image of whatever is in front of it, when focused through the lens of the eye or a camera. Mirrors reverse the direction of the image in an equal yet opposite angle from which the light shines upon it. This allows the viewer to see themselves or objects behind them, or even objects that are at an angle from them but out of their field of view, such as around a corner. Natural mirrors prehistoric times, water, but people turing mirrors out rials for thousands metals, and glass. metals like silver often used due to applied as a thin cause of its natuhard surface.
have existed since such as the surface of have been manufacof a variety of mateof years, like stone, In modern mirrors, or aluminum are their high reflectivity, coating on glass berally smooth and very
A maze is a path or collection of paths, typically from an entrance to a goal. The word is used to refer both to branching tour puzzles through which the solver must find a route, and to simpler non-branching patterns that lead unambiguously through a convoluted layout to a goal. The pathways and walls in a maze are typically fixed, but puzzles in which the walls and paths can change during the game are also categorised as mazes or tour puzzles Mirror Maze The mirror maze itself is a pattern, combining several characteristics of geometric patterns: repetition, symmetry and tessellation using repeated equilateral triangles. These triangles fit together without any gaps or overlaps, creating a tessellation. Mirrored surfaces all around reflect the pattern so that it repeats and appears infinite.
AI is something really weird after all. This time we look at AI in gaming. Forget about the medical diagnosis and the AI in law and so on. The real money is in entertainment. That means games! I found an interesting article here. It is written by Jonathan Ore · CBC Radio. I have gained inspiration from this article and I will also quote a few sentences from it. Let us get into a few ‘home truths’ about all of this. Let us look at the medical diagnosis. AI will be able to ‘listen’ to the patient, search for the symptoms on the internet, coming up with a few suggestions and so on. But what is a gaming experience? What is it we seek? There are several differences in all of this. First of all, we would like the game to respond to what we do. And ultimately, not in the same way all the time. That gets boring. So, if I go left in the game all the
time, it would be nice to meet new people or new situations. Could AI not do that for me? Of course it can. We go beyond ‘scripting’. We get into player behavior. This is very different from a medical diagnosis!
this time) avoid being flattened.
If the game would change according to my ‘likes’ and evolve with me, it would be an experience. An example: if I get to a ‘stage’ in the game and always get knocked out it is boring if I have to go through the same sequence to get to the stage where I can (maybe
The game could also evolve around how ‘good’ I am. Taking down the difficulty if I am novice and so on. In essence: The game provides an experience that is unique to me, directed at me and evolving around me. That is much more interesting than the typical game that is rather linear. That will also mean money. And that is what makes the world go around.
According to the article, developing without the (final) human touch is near impossible. AI can assist the developer in many ways, creating many more characters in the game, suggesting different paths, acting out proto-types of the game to test feasibility and attractiveness. I quote from the article: “John Romero, legendary game designer and co-creator of Doom, told CBC Radio’s The Sunday Magazine that AI could be “really groundbreaking” in fleshing out the world around a player, particularly the way secondary characters react to the human player. “You can talk to them, and they can talk back to you — and it’s not canned lines that are pre-recorded, but they’re generated in real time based off of all of what’s going on in the game,” he said.” Development of a game is also bound by the normal development cycle. That means there is an idea phase, followed by a concept definition phase. Can AI do that? Not at the moment, maybe in some years time. This is where the human touch comes into play. AI can assist in the process, but that is like we have gone from writing with a quill (like Harry!) to using Word.
I quote: “Ubisoft, the studio behind series like Assassin’s Creed and The Division, recently announced they’re working on an AI-powered tool called Ghostwriter. “Ghostwriter isn’t replacing the video game writer, but instead, alleviating one of the video game writer’s most laborious tasks,” the company stressed high up in a press release. “There’s always some element of stuff that gets put in that’s somewhat templated, and then an artist comes in and makes sure everything makes sense. That is to bring an actual human touch on things. But oftentimes it starts from something that is less bespoke than you may think,” says Benjamin Rivers, co-founder of the Toronto-based independent studio Bancy Co. If we look at the ultimage ‘experience’ we are getting close to a convergence of the music video and the gaming. We had an article on AI in the music industry. It is all about the experience and entertainment. The new entertainment world is probably adding myself into a new reality that is designing itself around ME and the way I like doing things. The ‘reality’ will know me through my interactions.
T T A
o gap year or not to gap year – that is a very good question – Just to paraphrase the bard. here are so many questions arising when the topic of gap year comes up. Is it safe? Where to go? Will I be all alone? What if …?
ll of this is a frightening path. Especially if this would be first time outside South Africa. It does not make it easier if it is say in a non-English speaking country.
W
e have put some pro’s and con’s together. These are not the only things, but at least the most pertinent one’s. We have also spoken to people who have taken a gap year and of course the major organiser of gap years.
L
et there be a warning in all this: gap year ought not to be a year of holiday. As in ‘do nothing at all’. If that is the case, you might find yourselves at a disadvantage. What is your CV saying about a blank spot of 12 month?
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gap year can be so enhancing and provide so much, but there is also a flip-side.
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This indoor and outdoo r venue is a all-weather n roller skatin g rink (do y remember ou how much fun you had ning those donskates as a kid?!?) offe hours of fam ring ily or birthd ay party fun Address: 29 . 6 Main Rd, Bryanston Phone: 082 36 www.rolleg 1 3497 oli.co.za
Durban Skydive Cent
Durban Skydive Centre offers First Jump Courses, Display Jumps and Tandem Skydives.
Ever thought of being a volunteer? Here is an idea:
Have you always wanted to get hands-on experience working with big cats ing the freedom and time off to relax on your holiday and explore South Af Then come on a Working Holiday at Cheetah Experience!
You’ll be working with a number of endangered and threatened species on basis, including cheetahs, leopards, male non-breeding lions, servals, caraca wildcats, wolves, meerkats and a Siberian tiger. Our project takes in rescued from the local area, so we also have various animals from time to time, inclu and antelope. Contact: 072 905 3457 https://www.cheetahexperience.com
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Adventure Fancy hopp Park ing inside a giant, transparent ball and roll ing downhill?
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WARMBATHS, A FOREVER RESORT
Within easy reach from Johannesburg on the N1, Warmbaths, A Forever Resort is situated in an African Bushveld atmosphere and will provide you with a unique and unforgettable Holiday Experience. Families don’t have the same needs and expectations when it comes to planning a Holiday, and that is the main reason why Warmbaths, A Forever Resort is the ideal Holiday Destination. https://www.foreverwarmbaths.co.za/
Very differ Fancy working with horses?
https://africandreamhorsesafari.co.za/ Our mission at African Dream Horse Safari is to show all who join us a fun and exciting way to work with and learn about both, horses and the wildlife of South Africa. The programmes welcome holiday makers and interns who would like to spend their time with us living their ultimate African Dream. Whether it be horse trails through the bush, improving horse riding skills during jumping and flat work lessons in the arena, game drives in the Big 5 nature reserve, making a difference on outreach or exploring the surrounding area on one of the many excursions, African Dream is the place for you.
rent to do! Junior Honorary Rangers National Project
The SANParks Junior Honorary Rangers National Project coordinates and manages the standard of Junior Honorary Ranger activities and training courses offered by the regions. Junior Honorary Rangers are typically high school children who have an interest in conservation. The activities and courses, which are interactive, are generally held outside of the national parks, although the Junior Honorary Rangers may visit the national parks as part of their annual curriculum. The curriculum is offered in five-phases over five years. The aims of the Junior Honorary Rangers National Project are to: • • • •
Instill a love for and knowledge of nature and conservation Support SANParks Have a succession plan for the SANParks Honorary Rangers Encourage Junior Honorary Rangers to remain involved in conservation and support SANParks after they have left school
In order for a Junior Honorary Ranger to become an Honorary Ranger, he/she must have attended Junior Honorary Rangers not less than an average of 80% over three years and must pass the compulsory SANParks Honorary Ranger course. Telephone: 012 426 5000 https://www.sanparksvolunteers. org/junior-honorary-rangers-national-project/
What is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government entity under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
What does NSFAS do? Supports access to and success in, higher education and training for students from poor and working-class families who would otherwise not be able to afford the cost of studies at a public university or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college. • Provides financial aid to eligible students who are studying or plan to study at any of the 50 TVET colleges or the 26 public universities in South Africa • Identifies students who qualify for the bursary • Provides bursaries to students
Who qualifies for NSFAS funding? • All South African citizens • All SASSA grant recipients • Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350 000 per annum • Persons with disabilities with a combined household income of not more than R600 000 per annum • Students who started studying at a university before 2018 and whose household income is not more than R122 000 per annum
What does the NSFAS bursary cover?
• Registration • Tuition • Book allowance • Accommodation allowance • Transport allowance • Food allowance • Personal care allowance
Does the NSFAS bursary offer any additional support for students with disabilities? Yes, NSFAS further supports funded students with disabilities through an additional allowance that covers: • Medical assessments • Assistive devices • Human support to cover for the cost of a caregiver, guide dog, scribe or tutor.
How, where and when can one apply for NSFAS? The 2021 application season will be communicated through media, social media and the NSFAS website www.nsfas.org.za. Applications are submitted online through the NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za
To apply for NSFAS funding students must have a registered myNSFAS account. If you plan to study in 2021 and require support from NSFAS, you may open your myNSFAS account now to keep updated with the latest funding information.
Connect with us using the following channels: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
myNSFAS
myNSFAS
NSFAS Connect: www.nsfas.org.za and log into your myNSFAS account NSFAS Connect gives you access to quick facts and frequently asked questions. Applicants and students can also submit and track a query for further assistance.
My new (running) shoes So we thought that shoes are just – shoes? Distance running is one of the top sports and the technology that goes into it is rather amazing. I found an interesting article here. This has formed the inspiration and I do quote (wildly) from the article. First of all. There is a lot of research and engineering going into manufacturing shoes for distance running. Some of course like it very much. The claim is that it enhances the sport and it moves the goal posts. Others are skeptical, claiming that it is now a ‘shoe war’ rather than the ability of the runners. Quote: “long-time coach Peter Thompson, believe that they are an obfuscation, skewing performance and removing a sense of “natural progression” in distance running. “The brands are not motivated by what’s best for the sport,” Thompson told CNN. “The brands are motivated by what’s best for them, and it then becomes a brand warfare rather than competition between individuals”
However, if we go back in time, how far back should we go? Zola was running barefoot. Is that then the norm for natural progression? “Thompson, who has previously helped the likes of Nike, Reebok, and Hoka to design running shoes and track spikes, refers to the stiff, curved plates in modern running footwear as “external recoil devices” which provide “even greater propulsion.” Those plates are embedded within thick, lightweight foam soles of no more than 40 millimeters in height, according to guidelines set by governing body World Athletics, and sit below very thin, minimalist uppers”. “Take Adidas’ Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1, which hadn’t been worn in a race prior to Assefa’s world record and went on general sale for $500 around the same time. They weigh just 138 grams, have a 39-millimeter-thick heel, and provide the wearer with “greater energy return” by improving running economy, Adidas claims. Assefa attributed her world record to “hard work over the past year,” but prior to the race had hailed her shoes as “the lightest racing shoe I have ever worn.” “Running in them is an incredible experience – like nothing I’ve felt before,” she said” Reality is here! The genie is out of the bottle.
Let it be said. These ‘new’ shoes are designed for a race. Not for races. In essence (including familiarization) they will last one race. Sounds weird? Due to the engineering and the balance between optimized pace vs durability, the one-race camp has won. It is like a Fourmula 1 car: the crank shaft is supposed to collapse after just one race. If it doesn’t, it has been constructed too well and that means too much weight. “Nike, meanwhile, has been a pacesetter in the running shoes arms race ever since its Zoom Vaporfly model was worn by three athletes, including Kipchoge, in the men’s marathon at the 2016 Rio Olympics. The company’s latest offering – the Alphafly 3, worn by Kiptum and women’s champion Sifan Hassan in Chicago – has been called “the fastest marathon shoe in the world” by Nike.” Is it worth the effort: “15 of the 20 best times in history have come since 2018, 17 of the 20 fastest women times have come since 2018” So yes. It does mean a lot suddenly.
But what is the gain? It is claimed that it improves energy consumption with some 4% on average. It may not sound like a lot, but this is the difference between winning and being #2. Safety? Well, some benefit more than others. Some are claiming to get calf injuries, others do not see any improvement at all. That is probably like any other new technology. “World Athletics told CNN that it has done “an enormous amount of work” to ensure that its shoe regulations “support innovation on the one hand, while also ensuring that shoe technology does not create unfairness or a paradigm shift in athletic performances on the other.” However, these super shoes are costly and that may also set the pace for who can afford such tecno-shoes. Is it different from other situations? The ones with the deepest pockets and the best technology might win the race. Is it a matter of ‘thanks to’ and other winners (low-tech) ‘despite of’? Remember Harry: that is not just a broom, Harry. That is a Nimbus 2000”. One would have thought that running can hardly attract major technology as it is rather basic. Look forward to more in the future!
Fabric – from unusual sources I found this article here. I quote from it and have been inspired by it. Remember the spray-on dress? That was surely a new. But what is fabric really? What can it be made of? Of course fabric is some natural fibers that can be spun and turned into a thread and then woven into a dress and so on. So what is new? Here comes something that will indeed make my head spin. Feeding a brand of bacteria fruit waste the bacteria produce some cellulose. surely it is not leather despite the look. Now we may ask: why make such ‘leather” and who will be interested? The plan behind it was to exactly not trying to make leather replica. The idea was to exactly make a new material. Something never seen before. The material having its own characteristics and being something ‘new’ in the fashion industry. So they make a jacket out of it. Not that the jacket will be produced in millions, but mostly as a technology demonstrator.
Here comes the clinch: The jacket is ‘green’. The bacteria is feed what otherwise would have been waste. On top of, the entire manufacturing process represents a far smaller carbon footprint than traditional leather tanning. Far les pollution, far less resources involved, cleaner manufacturing. That appeals to us all (at least those of us being a bit conscious about the planet). Who are the people behind this great idea? Quote: “Gómez-Ortigoza, whose background is in finance, founded Polybion in 2014 with his brother, Axel, whose background is in biotechnology and together with friend and materials scientist Bárbara González Rolón”. This is Mexico. One thing is the inventors, but it needs to get to market. People will have to be able to buy the products on a global scale for anything to be a success. Polybion teamed up with Danish fashion house Ganni. This is a perfect match as Ganni’s goal is a 50% absolute carbon reduction for its operations by 2025. Ganni is also committed to introducing new materials and plan on having new collections made with the Polybion cellulose fibers from next year. .
Who is Ganni? This is really a very good question. It is not so easy to answer. Ganni is a lot of things and has a rather unique business model and philosophy. This is all gleaned from Wiki. It was founded in 2000 by Frans Truelsen. It was a bit of a cult fashion until husband-and-wife duo Nicolaj Reffstrup and Ditte Reffstrup bought it in 2009. The product range is the typical fashion environment: pants, jerseys, denim, skirts, etc. etc. They position themselves as higher-end fashion, between Zara and Dior. Ganni introduced Ganni Repeat. Why buy if you can rent your clothes for up to three weeks at a time? This is what they marketed together with Lewis. The initiative is called ‘love letters’ and consists of selected denim pieces. Who will do that: this is the ‘genius’ part: the people who are conscious about the environment! No wastage of fabrics, etc. etc. All green! And now it is fashion to show off in such selected denim for all to see how ‘green’ you are.
It makes perfect sense for Ganni to team up with Polybion. It is not necessary to use leather products if one can use low-impact cellulose products grown by bacteria. Their range of handbags, shoes and so on might just be all non-leather leather. Another initiative is to transforms textile waste into high quality fiber hence a partnership with Infinited Fiber Company. The latest in sustainability is an after-care programme for clothes: They have partnered with on-demand repair service Sojo in order to provide aftercare to its customers in terms of repairing purchased clothes, to enhance reusability. Fashion is different now. The players are far more conscious about the entire materials sourcing and manufacturing process. Because the consumers are selective. Why buy from a brand who is a big polluter? Consumers have choices and it is exactly the conscious consumer Ganni is focusing on. Now it is a matter of catching the ‘green’ wave and providing products that the consumer can identify with. It is fashion to be ‘green’ and there is only one way of doing that: buy products that others will recognize as ‘green’. And that is Ganni!
What is Christmas without the carols? But it is not just all the usual ones. There are many different carols from around the world. Listen on: The first one is of course the absolute classic: BoneyM!
Of course there is also Christmas in Japan:
China is not far behind!
Of course France is here:
Russia has to be there
and of course: ourselves!
Ndlovu Youth Choir: listen to them!
It’s mov
The C
The ultimate Sci-F If there is any movie worth going for it is Creator. It is hi-powered Sci-Fi and fantastic photography and movie technology. The plot is somewhat the ‘usual’, so let me see if I can summarise it: In 2055, an AI detonates a nuclear warhead over Los Angeles, California. In response, most of the Western nations wage war against AI to prevent humanity’s extinction; they are being resisted by people of the so-called New Asia who continue to embrace AI. The military seeks to assassinate “Nirmata”, the mysterious chief architect behind the AI advancements. The USS NOMAD (North American Orbital Mobile Aerospace Defense) is developed as an advanced space station capable of launching destructive attacks from orbit. In comes Alpha O (Alphie), the ‘child’ of the hero and Nirmata (maybe). This is the one with the ‘hole’ in the head and claimed to be the AI weapon that can destroy humanities last hope – The NOMAD. It is discovered that the nuclear explosion was a coding error by a human so there is no need for any war. The hero and Alphie set out to destroy NOMAD (which they do) and the war ends. There is a lot more to the plot, but this is somewhat it.
vie time!
Creator
Fi movie of the decade
... and the music:
December is of course festive season, New Year’s and all things to all people. That said, there are still a few other events worth noticing (all Wiki): Wright Brothers Day (December 17) is a United States national observation. It is codified in the US Code, and commemorates the first successful flights in a heavier-than-air, mechanically propelled airplane, the Wright Flyer, that were made by Orville and Wilbur Wright on December 17, 1903, near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. On September 24, 1959, U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower declared December 17 to be Wright Brothers Day. Wright Brothers Day was announced as an official commemorative day in Ohio, on October 5, 2011, celebrating 100 years of practical flight for the Wright Brothers. We all take it as a natural thing that catching a flight to somewhere is no big deal. In those days (and right up until the 1950’s it was).
We all know that math is important: The Indian government declared 22 December to be National Mathematics Day. It was introduced by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on 26 December 2011 at Madras University, to mark the 125th birth anniversary of the Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. On this occasion Prime minister Manmohan Singh also announced that 2012 would be celebrated as the National Mathematics Year. Since then, India’s National Mathematics Day is celebrated on 22 December every year with numerous educational events held at schools and universities throughout the country. In 2017, the day’s significance was enhanced by the opening of the Ramanujan Math Park in Kuppam, in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh. National Mathematics Day is celebrated in all schools and universities throughout the country
We need writers! Hola MaHigh-School is YOUR magazine. That is why we would love to see students writing for students about student life and everything of importance to a student in any grade10-12 across the country. What is required? That is easy: You have to be in grade 10-12 somewhere Impeccable in your preferred language-and that might not be English. We try to be more than just English. Passionate about your topic of choice - no dull articles here. Do you get anything out of it? Well, not money, sorrry. BUT if we publish your articles you will have: Your bio in a commercial magazine A photo of yourself You can put it all on your CV you can use us as a reference
Is it important? YES it is. Look what Rofhiwa said: My name is Rofhiwa and I love to write. I have used my skills to express my thoughts on international dealings of the world which have been published in Hola MaHigh-School. It has paid off, not only is my work printed for young people in the country to read, but it also contributed to me gettng a bursary from CNBC-Africa to do my post-graduate studies. Would be a lot harder to get by if I didn’t have a platform like Hola MaHigh-School.
What me on
to do?
ivan@ ro name mele.co.za : Cell n u m b e E-ma r i ... and l address we wi ll talk !
Next Time... Next time we see each other will be 2024. A new year and a new beginning. As this is the last issue for the year, we will take the opportunity to say ‘goodbye’ to our grade 12s. Thanks for your support and interest in ‘relaxing’ with us. Next issue will be a ‘welcome’ to the new grade 10s. ...but we have a lot more as well: It will be back to school. Schooling in itself is a goal worth pursuing. It will form the basis for everything else you want to do in life. That is the simple truth. So get on with it! Science and international will be there of course, and music and film and maybe also a bit of tech. I need to find conspiracies again. I love those. Until next time!