SCIENCESTARS ISSUE 04
THE POWER OF ENGINEERING
UPCOMING MAIN DST EVENTS IN 2014 • • • •
Scifest Budget Vote National Science Week Women In Science Awards
CONTENTS CONTENTS
FEATURES
5 8 1 1
FOREWORD Prof Azwinndini Muronga
Engineering Why not engineer dst African Astronomy
4
Science stARS
1
3
6
2 2 3 3 3
0 eskom expo For young Scientists 6 dst Algae based technology 0 SANRAL Building a future South Africa 2 Electrical engineering Meet Bramley Maetsa 8 Investec Promaths Matric learners
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Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
UJ Science Centre
scifest aFRICA Into the space
FOREWORD
the
FOREWORD Have a good festival As you enter the festivities of SciFest, Science Star magazine welcomes you to yet another special edition. The science stars March issue’s theme is engineering. March is water month. Water is a basic necessity to sustain our lives. Which is why Mars Curiosity Rover is on the red planet in search for any signs of life. We all have our responsibilities to use water wisely. In this issue you will find important information about different engineering degrees. You will also hear about moving stories of those who made it into engineering careers from humble beginnings. I am the Director of UJ Soweto Science Centre. For the past three years the Centre has produced the best grade 10-12 results for Soweto. It continues to make a difference in the lives of residence of the Soweto community. I am also the Vice-Chairperson of Science-TUBE that takes science to the most rural parts of our country through an exhibition called “Science Beyond Borders Exhibition”. Inside you will also find advetorials from CSIR, SANSA and SANRAL. I wish all of you a happy scifest festival.
Prof Azwinndini Muronga
Director of UJ Soweto Science Centre Vice-Chairperson of Science-Tube
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
5
ED’S NOTE
LETTER FROM
THE EDITOR
team Science Stars
Managing Editor • Evans Manyonga editorial@sciencestars.co.za
Art Director • Nkabanhle Mawala
The Engineer In You
Graphic Designer • Cinzia Joey Swartz
Welcome to our latest issue of Science Stars. This issues theme is Engineering. We hope you will learn a lot of new things from this fabulous edition. We have really really enjoyed putting it together. We all know about Engineering but very few of us actually know what it is about. It is a very broad discipline that has so many other branches within it. Some of these are Aerospace Engineering, Building Services Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Marine Engineering, Minerals and Metallurgical Engineering, Risk Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mining Engineering and even Software Engineering. This is actually good news because it gives you such a wide variety of engineering disciplines to choose from. I hope you all read the cover story and find out more about this incredible discipline. Find out who is widely credited as the person who started engineering and just how far it has evolved. The career article also tells you more about where you can study and what you need to be an engineer.
Feature Writer • Unathi Kondile Chairman • Madambi Rambuda info@roswikamedia.co.za
Sales Executive • Siseko Siwali siseko@sciencestars.co.za
Ambassador • Azwindinni Muronga
Copyright 2014 Roswika Media. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or any means, electronically or mechanically, without prior permission. Science Stars is published by Roswika Media - a member of Shanduka Black Umbrellas.
You will also read a really touching story of Bramley Maetsa a boy who grew up at a farm but through hard work and education is now the big shot, head of Sharepoint at Saratoga Software; a specialised Information Technology company owned by the Sekunjalo group. This story really highlights what I always say; that with education everything is possible. Maetsa is a model of hard-work and perseverance. Despite his humble beginnings he strived for success and he succeeded. Read it and be inspired! Finally I hope some of you will be making your way to Grahamstown for the Science Festival. Am sure this year will even be more exciting and fulfilling than last year. I am personally expecting to have a really good time and hope to learn so many new things. Plus I would never pass the chance to hangout with all the cool science kids. Hope to see you there. Always remember; A set goal is the master of motivation!
Evans Nyasha Manyonga Managing Editor
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Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
31 Brickfield Road, Upper East Side, Unit 9B Cape Town 021 447 7197 info@sciencestars.com www.sciencestars.co.za
FROM CLASSROOM TO BOARDROOM From building schools to supporting black entrepreneurs, from making university study possible for disadvantaged students to providing work experience for young graduates, Shanduka Foundation strives to develop South Africa’s human potential. Through a set of complementary programmes, Shanduka Foundation creates opportunities for educational development, career growth and the acquisition of entrepreneurial capabilities. •
Adopt-a-School Foundation mobilises companies and individuals to adopt disadvantaged schools with the aim of improving the academic, infrastructural, social and security environment in schools.
•
The Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust provides bursaries to disadvantaged students and organises vacation work in companies in the Shanduka Group.
•
The Shanduka internship programme provides experiential training for selected learners and job seekers within Shanduka Group and across its partner network.
•
Shanduka Black Umbrellas nurtures qualifying 100% black owned businesses by providing meaningful access to markets, networks and finance through its small enterprise incubators and online procurement portal.
Thanks to the ongoing support of many partners in business, government and civil society, Shanduka Foundation is making a significant impact in the lives of young South Africans.
To find out more about the work of the foundation and its programmes, visit
www.shanduka.co.za/shanduka-foundation
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ENGINEERING
WHY NOT ENGINEER.. Improving our world
8
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
ENGINEERING GALILEO
S
o we have all heard different stories
515BC he constructed the first man made
about engineering and Engineers.
canal which linked the River Nile to the
Apparently its so difficult and also
Red sea. The same great guy (Darius 1)
very financially rewarding. Apparently only
also built a great network of roads which
a select few of us are clever enough to be
even had a 2 000 royal road at its centre.
Engineers and apparently only the best
As time went on more and more engineer-
of the best can make it in the engineer-
ing aspects started to take shape from the
ing world. Well... So how true is it? We are
Romans to the Greek guys building roads
going to find out and tell you more about
to steam engines. One look at the great
the fascinating world of engineering.
pyramids of Egypt shows you what we can
What Is Engineering
achieve through engineering. They are a man made wonder of the world that was
Engineering is the practical application of
constructed through the power of engi-
science and math to solve problems, and
neering.
it is everywhere in the world around us. From when we wake up to when we even
Disciplines
go to sleep each and everyday engineering
So the complex thing about engineering is
technologies improve the ways that we
the fact that there are so many disciplines
communicate, work, travel, eat, entertain
within the subject. Historically, mainstream
ourselves and even how we get to differ-
engineering was divided into four broad
ent places. You might not know it or even
disciplines these were chemical, civil, elec-
see it but engineering makes a lot of what
trical and mechanical engineering, with
we do even possible. And its all through
several branches within each discipline
the application of science and mathemat-
covering a whole lot of fields.
ics.
Today, we are seeing the emergence of
Engineers are problem-solvers whose
many new disciplines of engineering. Let
main aim is to make things work quickly,
us explore some of these various areas of
more reliably and less expensively.
expertise and disciplines:
Engineering is the main driver of our modern lifestyle, from the big shiny cars
Aerospace Engineering
we see to the life saving medical technol-
These are the guys who deal with all
ogy. Engineers have a wide range of study
things that are in the air. Aerospace
options and career paths that let them
Engineers design, construct and operate
design, build, and manage those different
aircraft, aerospace vehicles and propulsion
and practical ideas into reality.
systems. This includes planes, jets, helicopters, gliders, missiles and spacecraft.
History
These guys are also involved in research-
So were did it all start. Whose the guy
ing, developing and testing new materials,
who said we are now introducing engi-
engines, body shapes and structures that
neering as a study discipline? Was he
may increase the speed and strength of
European, Asian or African? Well the good
aircraft. They are also responsible for plan-
news is engineering actually started in
ning thorough maintenance programs for
Africa. The guy credited for being the first
aircraft and exercising strict safety and
Engineer was good old King Darius the
environmental controls while using their
first. He was a Persian king in the territory
knowledge of electrical, electronic and
that is now part of modern day Egypt. In
computer systems for automatic control
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
9
ENGINEERING
and communication systems for the opera-
more comfortable life by designing tools
metals. Often these processes are carried
tion of aircraft. Phew seems like a lot,
and facilities that can make their lives
out at big plants and factories. Safety is
but its not as difficult as it sounds if you
much better and easier to manage.
also a major part of chemical engineering
receive the proper training and education.
because it deals with many different ele-
In fact one of our friends here at Science
Building Services
Stars is an Aerospace Engineer. He pops
Building Services Engineers are involved
Chemical engineers are also involved in the
in once in a while to say hello and he
with designing heating, air-conditioning,
production of pharmaceutical products such
assures us that he believes his job is the
electric lighting and power, water and gas
as penicillin and shampoo and they also
best in the world, and no, he says its not
supply, plumbing and drainage systems.
make sure the elements used do not harm
too difficult.
Fire safety and security systems, phones,
the environment.
Agricultural Engineering These engineers are involved with conserving and developing our natural
faxes, intercoms, computers, lifts and esca-
ments that are risky and dangerous.
lators are all needed for a functional and
Structural Engineering
safe work environment.
Natural forces such as wind, waves and earthquakes and their effects all need to
resources such as soil, water, land, rivers
Chemical Engineering
and forests. So in other words they make
This is one of the most famous forms of
designed and built. Certain stresses caused
sure our environment is safe through
engineering. Chemical engineering has
by the modern environment, such as the
researching and developing solutions
more to do with the ways in which raw
traffic of both cars and people, also need to
to fix problems such as soil erosion and
materials are changed into useful and
be considered. Therefore my dear friends a
salinity. They are responsible for designing
commercial end products. Research of raw
structural engineer ensures that structures
better methods of farming and forestry,
materials and their properties, design and
are built in such a way that they stand up
improving the machinery used at our
development of equipment and the evalu-
to these forces. Innovative solutions to
farms and buildings and also in lessening
ation of operating processes are all part
these problems are researched, developed
the impact of humans on the environment.
of chemical engineering. These skills are
and tested by structural engineers.
Agricultural Engineers also make sure we
combined to extract raw materials which
Structural engineers often work with
can recycle and re-use products so that
can then be refined and manufactured to
architects, builders and those in mechani-
they don’t all just go to waste. Who knew
produce such things as food, petrol, plas-
cal, electrical and chemical engineering to
you could be an Agricultural Engineer one
tics, paints, paper, ceramics, minerals and
organise and supervise the construction
day huh!
Biomedical Engineering I personally like these guys. Biomedical Engineers work with doctors and medical scientists, researching and designing ways to improve health care and medical services. They may use microcomputers, lasers, and other materials to develop and improve medical research equipment that is used to diagnose health problems. Sometimes these guys are also involved in the development of medical products and different types of equipment used to monitor and treat patients. Even more impressive they are involved in designing and improving
equipment for disabled people. They also come up with ways for people who have medical issues to have a 10
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
be taken into account when a structure is
ENGINEERING
vital importance in everyday communica-
how to build the virtual world. Fascinating
tion, defence, transport, civil aviation &
indeed.
medical equipment such as the bionic ear, pacemakers and life support systems.
This is a full list of Engineering disciplines including the ones that did not get a stron-
Industrial Engineering
ger explanation, go through them and look
This form of Engineering is concerned
at the ones you might find interesting:
with the design, improvement, and installation of integrated systems of
- Aerospace Engineering
human resources, materials, equipment
- Building Services Engineering
and finance. It makes use of specialised
- Electrical Engineering
knowledge and skill in the mathematical,
- Marine Engineering
physical, physiological and social sciences
- Minerals and Metallurgical Engineering
together with the principles and methods
- Risk Engineering
of Engineering analysis and design to
- Agricultural Engineering
specify, predict and evaluate the results
- Civil Engineering
to be obtained from such systems and
- Chemical Engineering
measure achievement. This is a form of
- Environmental Engineering
engineering that cuts across a lot of other
- Materials Engineering
disciplines.
- Mining Engineering
of particular structures. Without the work
- Software Engineering
done by these guys most of the buildings
- Biomedical Engineering
would have come crushing right on top of
Mining Engineering
- Coastal and Ocean Engineering
us. Just imagine the FNB Stadium. Without
The beauty of engineering is the fact that
- Industrial Engineering
structural engineers we wouldn’t have the
these guys get to work with professionals
- Mechanical and Manufacturing
beautiful stadium.
from other disciplines. Take for example
Electronics And Telecommunications Engineering
Engineering
Mining Engineers. They work together with geologists to investigate and carry out
So what is the conclusion to all this infor-
the extraction of ore bodies and mineral
mation? Well for starters we now know
deposits, as well as the extraction of non-
what engineering is, and we also know that
Electronics engineering deals with devices
metallic ores and fuels such as coal and
its a very wide area. There are so many
and systems that use small amounts of
uranium. They are responsible for planning
streams of engineering. This is really good
electrical energy to analyse, transmit and
the safest and most cost effective way of
news because it means you are spoilt for
store information.
removing minerals from the ground, rivers
choice. You can simply choose the stream
Transmission of these electronic signals
or the sea bed. They may be involved with
you really love and study towards that. So it
forms the basis of communications and
designing, installing and supervising the
doesn’t really mean you need to be as clev-
the information technology industry, and
use of mining machinery and equipment
er as Einstein it just means you should love
includes the field of microelectronics and
and for inspecting the progress of mining
Science and Mathematics. It also means
the use of silicon chip technology. Various
operations. They are the guys who work
you should be someone who loves solv-
systems for communication between
with mining companies and also investi-
ing problems and can concentrate. And yes
people both nearby and on the other side
gate new areas for exploring minerals.
Engineers earn significantly more money
of the world have been developed and are
than most disciplines. So there you have it!
constantly being improved and refined.
Software Engineering
I hope sooner than later some of you will
This communication takes place using
These guys concentrate more on the inter-
be popping into our office to say hello and
satellite, telephone, optical fibres and
net and the new technology. These are
to tell us how the world of engineering is
computer systems. These systems are of
our modern day internet gurus who know
treating you!
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
11
COMPUTER SCIENCE CAREER
ENGINEERING
A Top Career
D
o you like solving technical prob-
Some Engineers work in testing, produc-
Sometimes a bachelor’s degree in physi-
tion and maintenance. These experts math? Do you love solving complex mostly supervise production in factories, problems? Well then you might consider find out the causes of breakdowns while
cal science or mathematics may be good
going into engineering. Engineers are
cipline of the field but they can also move
lems? Are you good at science and
also finding ways to fix the problems.
problem solvers who use their expertise in They also estimate the time it will take to science and math to do their job. complete projects and the cost. Engineers
enough but it all depends on the type of job. Engineers usually specialise in one disaround and change disciplines as long as they are related.
usually work in a team with other profes-
What Do Engineers Do? There are various disciplines of engineering. All these disciplines require different
sionals. So it is quite fun.
Engineering disciplines
Salary Expectation Engineers earn according to their discipline. So the salaries range between R10
skills and training. In general engineers
Aerospace
basically design, plan, and supervise the
Agricultural
even R20 000 entry level for other disci-
construction of buildings, highways, and
Biomedical
plines. Experienced Engineers generally
transit systems. They also develop and implement better ways of processing and using raw materials.
Chemical Civil
earn between R30 000 to even R150 000 a month!
Computer Hardware Electrical and Electronics
Engineers at times also analyse the
000 at entry level for some disciplines and
Environmental
Where to study You can study for engineering at all of the
impact of the different products and sys-
Industrial
top universities in South Africa. You just
tems they develop so they can make them
Materials
have to make sure your matric scores are
more efficient because as we know life
Mechanical
high in Mathematics and other Science
is always changing and our needs also
Mining and Geological
disciplines. Some of the institutions that
change. For example a bridge might be
Nuclear
built to accommodate 30 cars a day but
Petroleum
after 2 years there might be more cars
offer the degree are the University of Cape Town (UCT), Wits University, Stellenbosch University, Fort Hare University, UNISA,
on the road so engineers might have to
Educational Requirements
University of Johannesburg (UJ) among
improve the same bridge to be able to
To get an entry-level job you would need
many more.
accommodate 60 cars.
at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering.
So unleash the engineer in you!
12
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
ASTRONOMY
AFRICAN ASTRONOMY INITIATIVES ATTRACT
ATTENTION IN THE USA
T
he growing interest of American
(NRAO), Prof. Aaron Parsons of the
The South African astronomers who
astronomers in South Africa’s
University of California, Dr Joseph Lazio of
took part in the session included Dr Ted
astronomy capabilities was evi-
the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), Prof.
Williams of the South African Astronomical
dent at the annual winter meeting of the
Andrew Baker of Rutgers University, and Dr
Observatory (SAAO), Dr Sarah Blyth of
American Astronomical Society (AAS),
John Mester of Associated Universities, Inc.
the University of Cape Town (UCT), Dr
which included a special session on
Ilani Loubser of North-West University, Dr Sheth made a presentation on the ini-
and Dr Jean-Christophe Mauduit of the
tiative to develop the next generation of
International Astronomical Union (IAU)
The 223rd AAS meeting took place at the
scientists through exchange programmes
Office for Astronomy Development.
Gaylord National Resort and Convention
between the USA and Africa.
Center in Maryland, from 5 to 9 January
Prof. Parsons talked about plans to build
The South African delegation talked about
2014.
the Hydrogen Epoch of Reionization Array
the emergence of Africa as a hub for
The AAS is the major organisation for pro-
telescope in South Africa following the
astronomy, mentioning the SKA, the African
fessional astronomers in North America.
success of the Precision Array to Probe
Very Long Baseline Interferometry Network,
Its aim is to promote the advancement of
Epoch of Reionization (PAPER) experi-
the Southern African Large Telescope, and
astronomy and closely related branches of
ment in the Karoo. PAPER’s results, which
the High-Energy Stereoscopic System.
science, as well as enhancing astronomy
have led to the project expanding to 128
education and providing a political voice
antennae, are due partly to the merits of
In his closing remarks, Mr Nemaungani
for its members through lobbying activi-
the Karoo site and the technical assis-
invited US astronomers to partner with
ties.
tance offered by the South African Square
Africa in its efforts to build the human
Kilometre Array (SKA) Project Office.
capital and technological expertise needed
“Astronomy Across Africa: A New Dawn”.
The US has a strong astronomy base, with
to expand the astronomy base.
the highest number of astronomers in a
Takalani Nemaungani, Director: Global
single country. In fact, it has about a third
Projects, and a group of South African
The session was also attended by European
of the total number of astronomers in the
astronomers braved the extreme cold of
astronomers, including Dr Phil Diamond,
world.
the recent polar vortex to participate in
Director of the SKA Organisation, and Prof.
The session was organised and hosted by
the special AAS session, which was aimed
Tim de Zeeuw, Director General of the
US astronomers, namely, Dr Kartik Sheth of
at showcasing existing collaborations and
European Southern Observatory.
the National Radio Astronomy Observatory
forging new partnerships. Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
13
UJ SCIENCE
UJ SOWETO SCIENCE CENTRE
SCIENCE STARS
F
huluFhelo Tshituhutuhu (five dis-
day and to give motivation to learners,
South Africa had such a Science Centre?
tinctions, Matric 2013). Thabang
parents and everybody who was there!”
Where learners would pay aroun R800 per
Motloung (six distinctions, Matric
said Muronga.
year to take part and boost their maths and
2013). Oletilwe Shuping (seven distinc-
tions, Matric 2012).
science skills? We think it would be great. The UJ Soweto Science Centre itself was
Perhaps, learners from across the country
established in 2010 to serve learners from
must make a plea to government for more
What do the above three learners have in
Soweto and the greater Johannesburg
of these Science Centres. At the very best
common? Beside the Matric distinctions?
metropolitan. It features learner pro-
they also prepare learners for university.
grammes, exhibitions, space labs, teachWell, they are proud products of the UJ
ers’ training programmes and more
Anyway, we were writing about the re-
Soweto Science Centre. They were award-
programmes. The centre has 35 staff
opening of the science centre this year; it
ed awards on the 18th of January this year,
members and approximately 821 learners
was a grand occasion that wet the appe-
at the official annual re-opening of the
this year.
tites of all for this years programmes at the
centre.
centre. Those who received awards were If you wonder who goes there? Well, it’s
obviously over the moon with excitement!
It was a day to remember as parents,
learners who are in Grade 10 to Grade 12.
The awards, which were certificates for
learners, past and prospective learners
These learners come to the centre every
those who passed Grade 12 really made
filled the venue to capacity. All to wit-
Friday afternoon from 14h30 till 17h00
them feel like achievers.
ness bright ‘science stars’ being awarded
– for tutorials, laboratory experiments, lec-
and motivated by the University of
tures on life orientation, career guidance
The next big step for the UJ Soweto Science
Johannesburg’s Faculty of Science Dean -
and motivational talks.
Centre is to now try and secure more spon-
Professor Annah Motete.
sorship for its programmes as well as find a
The Department of Science & Technology
Saturdays it’s 08h00 till 15h00 where they
way of getting tertiary education bursaries
(DST) was there.
do theory lessons and are taught Maths,
for them. Professor Muronga, is working
The South African Agency for Science &
Physics, chemistry, life sciences, English
day and night, to ensure this can one day
Technology Advancement (SAASTA) was
and computer training.
become a reality for the learners.
And so were many other stakeholders or
The programmes also run during the
Finally, to all who received awards on that
contributors to the science centre.
school vacation.
day, we say: “Shine! Shine on you Science
The director of the UJ Science Centre,
Professor Muronga concluded with the fol-
Professor Azwinndini Muronga, said he
lowing words: “Our vison really is to see a
For more information on the UJ Science
was particularly impressed by the calibre
culture of science in Soweto and the sur-
Centre, take your phone or school computer
of learners who received awards. “I was
ounding regions!”
and visit www.uj.ac.za and search for UJ
honoured to be a part of that re-opening
Wouldn’t it be great if each township in
Soweto Science Centre there.
there.
Stars!”
14
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
GET ALL THE ANSWERS AT THESE EXCITING EVENTS AT UJ From 2014 the UJ OPEN DAY format will be changing to give you, the learner, a valuable experience with us. Instead of one large OPEN DAY, we have put together a calendar filled with smaller focused interactions to offer you the best guidance for your future. Booking is essential, so book today by visiting future.uj.mobi either on your phone or PC or click on the My Future UJ Learner Portal Banner on www.uj.ac.za. If you have problems booking please email learnerportal@uj.ac.za or call 011 559 6372. DATE
EVENT
23 April 2014
Mini Open Day – Grade 12
9 May 2014
Mini Open Day – Grade 12
14 May 2014
Mini Open Day – Grade 12
16 May 2014
Mini Open Day – Grade 12
4 June 2014
Mini Open Day – Grade 12
23 June 2014
Subject Choice Seminars – Grade 9
24 June 2014
Subject Choice Seminars – Grade 9
30 July 2014
Mini Open Day – Grade 12
6 August 2014
Mini Open Day – Grade 12
10 September 2014 Mini Open Day – Grade 11 17 October 2014
Mini Open Day – Grade 11
* Please note these dates may be subject to change.
Individuals, parents, teachers and all groups are welcome – proof of your booking must be presented on entrance. Campus tours will take place on the last Friday of every month, unless there is a public holiday and must also be booked on future.uj.mobi. Please look out for more information in the press and online regarding UJ’s winter schools and other helpful initiatives aimed at keeping you CLEAR about your future!
SMS the keyword ODays to 45813 for any further info on any of these events.* * Standard sms rates apply.
Choose the r
ight subjects in Gr 9 L earn well in G E arn the ma r 10 r you need in ks Gr 1 Apply on tim 1 e in Gr 12 Register to b e a UJ stude come nt once accepted t o UJ
SCIFEST
Scifest Africa 2014 Into the space
S
cifest Africa, South Africa’s National
From humble beginnings in Miami’s inner
Science Festival, will lift off in
city, Irving turned down a full football
Grahamstown on 12 March 2014,
scholarship to the University of Florida
taking visitors on a week-long, action
to complete a degree in Aeronautical
packed adventure into the great unknown.
Science at the Florida Memorial University, where he also earned his private, com-
Celebrating the theme “Into the space!”,
mercial pilot, and certified flight instructor
the 2014 festival programme will offer
licenses. In 2005 Barrington founded a
visitors over 500 events that will explore
non-profit company, Experience Aviation
spaces big and small, such as anatomy
Inc., which introduces the youth to careers
African astronomy and space sciences at
and the brain, astronomy, the atmosphere,
in aviation and aerospace.
the festival.”
versary of the Canadian Space Agency,
Scifest Africa Director, Anja Fourie, says the
The festival programme will see the return
geographical regions, nanotechnology,
theme was selected in support of celebra-
of popular events such as the DST Laser
psychology, underground and underwa-
tions to mark the installation of the first
Show, Kids Dig, Rhodes University Green
ter exploration, space sciences, the SKA,
of 64 radio telescope dishes in Carnarvon,
Fund Run and Soap Box Derby, but will
the universe, and any other space you
Northern Cape that will make up meerKAT,
also feature several new events including
can think of, including good old parking
the precursor to the Square Kilometre
a Paper Aeroplane Competition, Science in
spaces!
Array telescope. “South Africa’s geographi-
the Park, and Science Slam sponsored by
cal advantages, infrastructure and human
the German Embassy in South Africa.
architecture, biotechnology, the 50th anni-
A sure highlight will be appearances by
capital have allowed our country to
National Geographic Emerging Explorer,
become a place of major significance in
Sponsored by the Department of Science
Barrington Irving Jr, the youngest and first
the practice of astronomy and space sci-
and Technology (DST), Scifest Africa remains
black person to fly solo around the world.
ences, and we look forward to showing off
the largest festival of its kind on the African continent, welcoming over 65,000 visitors of all ages to Grahamstown in 2013. The festival will also host three parallel festivals during Scifest Africa 2014, namely the iRhini Township Festival, Scikids and Scifest Africa @ Nelson Mandela Bay Science Centre, Uitenhage. Look out for the electronic programme available at www.scifest.org.za from 3 February 2014. Bookings open on 3 February 2014. Contact Scifest Africa on 046 603 1106 or info@scifest.org.za for more information.
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Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
Building on a solid foundation
3183
At SANRAL, we’re in the business of building for the future. That doesn’t just mean roads and bridges, but people too. That’s why we’re pleased to sponsor the SOUTH AFRICAN MATHS OLYMPIAD being held on 13 March 2014 throughout the country. We’re proud of those who achieve and we salute those who win. You never know, they may just carry your future.
More than just roads Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
17
SOUTHERN AFRICAN SCIENCE LENS A photographic competition to celebrate science
CONGRATULATIONS TO 2013/2014 WINNERS Science As Art
Kim Van Zyl: Distortion
This paperclip is floating on the surface of glycerine, turning the effects of surface tension and the distortion of the surface caused by the paperclip into art.
Science Close-Up
Albe Carina Swanepoel: Starry Starry Night
These starry objects are human erythrocytes, also known as red blood cells. Red blood cells are usually biconcave with a smooth surface, but when these blood cells undergo stress their shape changes. Numerous spiky projections are formed when the cell membrane expands. Then they are referred to as echinocytes, which comes from the Greek word echinos, literally meaning “hedgehog”.
Science in Society
Morgan Trimble: Society’s Resources
One way scientists can support society is through recommendations for the management of natural resources. This photograph was taken during a scientific study of the structure of fisheries in the Bangweulu Wetlands of northern Zambia. In the project, researchers worked with local fishermen to measure the number and size of fish offtake of different species in the unique swamp fishery to better understand sustainability of the system.
International Year of Water Cooperation
Nicholas Cullinan: Solving the Problem of Polluted Mine Water Edward Peters, a postgraduate student in the Crystallisation and Precipitation Unit at the University of Cape Town uses an optical light to observe the state of the ice and salt crystals during a Eutectic Freeze Crystallization (EFC) process. EFC is a technique that can be used to recover salt from industrial brine solutions and produce pure water.
Science in Action
Thomas Whitehead: Kelvin-Helmholtz
This phenomenon of wave-like clouds is created by a turbulence of two air layers lying close to each other which move with different speed and/or direction. This is known as the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability, which has even been observed in Saturn’s bands and Jupiter’s Red Spot. Kelvin-Helmholtz instability cloud structures are particularly rare and are considered by cloud enthusiasts as the Holy Grail. To find out more about the science behind these images or to see more photos, visit www.saasta.ac.za. The Southern African Science Lens Competition is run by the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement, a business unit of the National Research Foundation. The competition aims to encourage scientists to share their world through the medium of photography.
It’s what we build
3112
We all dream of a better future. For ourselves, our families and our country. SANRAL, as part of the National Development Plan, is improving and expanding vital road infrastructure. In the process we are creating jobs, transferring skills and developing opportunities for all South Africans. We are proud to be a part of the National Development Plan, because we know that roads are more than just roads, they pave the way to a better future.
More than just roads
WHC
WATER, HYGIENE, CONVENIENCE (WHC) Water is the Most Precious Commodity; Preservation is Our Priority
W
HC was founded by Paseka
Did you know
litres p/day, p/toilet, therefore saving 70%
Lesolang. His main focus is
A leaking toilet can waste +/-700L of
water. It is more cost effective than buying
to save water because it is a
water a day and over 250 000L per year
a new toilet and promotes eco-conscious-
scarce commodity that is quickly dimin-
and the best way to fix this problem is to
ness.
ishing. According to the World Health
get a new toilet. However many people
Organization (WHO), South Africa’s water
would rather ignore the problem or try
Benefits/value
consumption will exceed availability by
something else, than buy a new toilet
The benefits of changing the water system are: It saves households a lot of money
2025. WHO has also identified a direct link between HIV/AIDS and poor sanita-
The Solution
because it is water efficient, it is manufac-
tion. The recovery period for someone
According to Lesolang the solution is an
tured in different designs, its easy to install,
with advanced HIV who contracts a water-
enhancement of the standard toilet that
easy to use, applicable to all income levels,
borne disease is longer, and his health
tends to malfunction and harbours bacte-
is environmentally friendly, applicable for
outcomes could diminish. As a result,
ria on the flush handle and pot. “It saves
before-sales and after sales market
water, sanitation and hygiene education is
140L of water a day per house in an aver-
and it will also grant the user peace of
key to combatting HIV/AIDS, as is empow-
age family of 4. It releases a detergent
mind and a clear conscience.
ering communities to manage water and
with the flushed water, to eliminate the 12
sanitation.
water-borne bacteria in the pot. Bacteria
Looming Water Crises
found on flush handles give birth to dis-
Awards won by Lesolang and WHC
eases,” he says.
South Africa is a Semi-Arid Country
“Hence, via our solution users do not use
•2010 Entrepreneur of the Year – University
and 70% of our rain evaporates before
the flush handle. This approach eliminates
of Pretoria
reaching the surface and we are already
encountered pathogens enhancing the
•2010 Most Innovative Product – Maker
depending on other countries for water
hygiene practices. These hygiene features
Faire Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
which is the base of life!
are so adequate that if used effectively
•2010 One of 10 selected to represent SA
Our dams are drying due to economic
they can prolong the lifespan of an infect-
at TITIIC
growth, population growth, climate change
ed HIV/AIDS person,” he adds.
•One of 15 delegates at 2010 EXPO -
Retrofit able Product water consumption might actually exceed WHC’s Leak less valve toilet replaces the and inefficient use of water and by 2025 availability of water supply.
old ball valve and as a result saves +/- 500
Shanghai, China •2012 JCI Best Business Plan 1st Prize Winner – South Africa •2012 Unreasonable Fellow – Boulder, USA •2012 one of 100 selected for SOCAP – San Francisco, USA •2012 Innovative Social Entrepreneurship – SAB Foundation •2012 JCI Creative Young Entrepreneurship Award – Taipei, Taiwan
20
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
CHANGE THE
ACE OF
CIENCE
WIN YOURSELF A NINTENDO DS AND ADD SOME COLOR IN YOUR LIFE
ALL YOU HAVE TO DO - IS... -LIKE OUR PAGE -SHARE OUR SCIENCE -GET AS MANY LIKES AS POSSIBLE
-WIN!!!
DST
PIONEERING ALGAE-BASED TECHNOLOGY CALLED
“COALGAE” UNVEILED Innovation
T
he Department of Science and
Zeelie said it had taken four years for the
cate that, at an appropriate scale, the pro-
Technology (DST) and the Nelson
project to get to this stage.
cess is financially viable. A full feasibility
Mandela Metropolitan University
Prof. Zeelie said that, following the devel-
study will be conducted in early 2014,” he
(NMMU) unveiled groundbreaking research
opment of the microalgae technologies
said.
in the area of late-generation biofuels.
over the last three years, a prefeasability
InnoVenton is also putting up a 15
The innovative algae technology was
engineering study had been completed
kW coal burner at its Gomery Avenue,
announced on 27 January 2014 at the
by Hatch Goba. The engineering study
Summerstrand, site in Port Elizabeth. “We
NMMU in the Eastern Cape. The NMMU
resulted in a robust and cost-effective
will burn the coal, producing sufficient
has developed and patented the growth
design for Coalgae production on a full
amounts of carbon dioxide to feed the
and blending of microalgae with coal
commercial scale.
algae [in InnoVenton’s own algae cultiva-
fines or discards. The coal fines or dis-
“Techno-economic studies of the Coalgae
tion system]. This will give us the data
cards, which constitute an environmental
process have been undertaken, and indi-
to make sure this process will work on a
nuisance, are mixed with the microalgae in an irreversible process that naturally excludes some of the mineral particles. Currently South Africa has large quantities of discarded coal that accrue at a rate of about 60 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa), with currently over one billion tonnes of discarded coal, which is an environmental nuisance. This kind of research has been a focus area of NMMU’s internationally-recognised institute of chemical technology, InnoVenton. Researchers have found that the microalgae can be combined with coal and charcoal and acts as an excellent binder for fine coal. NMMU’s Prof. Ben
26
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
DST
bigger scale, i.e. using flue gas from power
In light of the introduction of biofuels,
by Cabinet in 2007, proposed that, while
stations to grow algae. We estimate that
the ability to combine the two feedstocks
other late or advanced generation tech-
this will reduce greenhouse gas emission
(coal fines and algae) into one product has
nologies were being developed, preference
from power stations by well over 20%. If
a substantial advantage in eliminating the
would be given to piloting proven biofuel
we can show we can do all this [at the
requirement for two separate processes.
technologies until 2013.
technical demonstration site], and we are
This holds promise for reducing the
The DST’s contribution to the national
confident we can, it will be a world stun-
capital investments that would have
Biofuels Industrial Development Strategy
ner. The biggest coal companies in the
been required for additional blending and
is through supporting research, develop-
world are extremely interested. The num-
distribution infrastructure, thus bringing
ment and innovation within the biofuels
ber of jobs opportunities this can create is
the realisation of a South African biofu-
field.
enormous.”
els industry much closer. It also enables
This is being done by delinking the bio-
the use of existing fuel transport infra-
fuels sector from the food industry, by
A second critical algae-to-energy project
structure to deliver a blended product at
exploiting South Africa’s rich biodiversity
is the production of aviation biofuel. “The
higher percentages than the mandatory
by using alternative feedstocks (including
government, through the Department of
2% blend.
waste materials), and using the techno-
Public Enterprises, has set a target for
By 2015, the government intends that all
logical heritage that the country has in
the production of 50% aviation biofuel by
transport fuels should be a blend, with
related sectors.
2020. We’ve made recommendations about
biofuels making up at least 2% of the
The DST supports a number of research
how to achieve that, using Coalgae, to pro-
blend. Coalgae exceeds this target.
teams and institutions, including the
duce the biofuel,” said Prof. Zeelie.
The Biofuels Industrial Strategy, adopted
NMMU.
Science Stars Magazine Issue 3 | www.sciencestars.co.za
27
CSIR
SO MANY CAREER POSSIBILITIES AT THE CSIR For your future
T
he Council for Scientific and
An idea becomes a product through
common droplet. Metallurgyical-, radio fre-
Industrial Research (CSIR) focuses
research and development and, subse-
quency, mining – any engineering profes-
its research efforts in diverse are-
quently, manufacturing. Systematic plan-
sional you can think of, apply their special
nas, which means that scientists, research-
ning, design, and arrangement of pro-
skills at the CSIR.
ers and engineers have a range of multi-
cessing methods and equipment involve
Here is what some of our engineers have
disciplinary fields in which they can vest
knowledge of equipment tool design,
to say about their work. Please meet
their interests.
operation sequencing, worker/machine
Thabang and Thanyani.
A computer scientist, for example, could
interaction, processing procedures, facili-
find him or herself applying their skills to
ties and plant layout.
Name and Position
research efforts in anything from design-
The career opportunities in the fields
Thabang Mashilwane - Software Engineer
ing aircraft; to collecting spatial data
of engineering, electrical technology,
under the Radar and Electronic Warfare
used in town planning; to developing
mechanical or civil technology at the
group.
algorithms for controlling the behaviour
CSIR are endless. It ranges from materials
of robots. At the CSIR, career paths are
handling systems, robotic systems to auto-
Which project are you working on?
seldom linear. As scientists are exposed
mated metrologywind engineering.
Batty Radar
to so many different opportunities, many
But these are only a few of the excit-
choose to grow in a whole new area of
ing CSIR career directions that involve
interest they had not considered before. A
engineering and technology. While CSIR
What is the impact in society of your project?
physicist working with condensed-matter,
aeronautical engineers are designing and
Radar systems are used to pinpoint loca-
for example, could discover he has an
testing aircraft, missiles, satellites and
tions, speed or type of objects. It can be
interest in nanotechnology, lasers or syn-
other systems; microfluidics engineers are
used to track anything from aircraft to
thetic biology and advance his career in
developing devices that can channel fluid
weather formations.
that direction.
flows a thousand times smaller than in a
In South Africa it is used in Missile guid-
28
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
CSIR
Thabang Mashilwane
Air traffic control and navigation in air-
A prototype ‘mine boot’ has been devel-
What would you need to study to work on such projects?
ports to ensure the safety of planes. This
oped by the CSIR. The intention is to
Mechanical Engineering or Biomedical
type of Radar detects the proximity of an
develop a boot that can prevent any
Engineering
aircraft and identifies the identity and
amputation in the event of small anti-
altitude of the plane. Weather sensing
personnel mine detonations as well as to
You are welcome to visit Thabang and
systems, to measure and locate precipita-
mitigate tissue and bone damage during
Thanyani at the CSIR exhibition stand for
tion, they can also measure wind direction
larger antipersonnel mine detonations.
more information. You are also welcome to
and speed.
The prototype mine boot is at the final
visit the CSIR website (www.csir.co.za) for
stages of testing and development.
updates on careers and bursaries.
ance systems in the Military environment.
What would you need study to work on such projects?
Which project are you working on?
At High school level Maths and Science
What is the impact in society of your project?
are paramount subjects and at Tertiary
The landmine has been branded as the
level you can study Engineering Degree
ultimate indiscriminate killer. Landmines
(Computer, Electronic or Electrical).
have claimed or impacted the lives of
Bio Engineering
many people in mine-affected countries throughout the world – regardless of age, gender or race. The mine boot will help
Name and position:
to reduce the injury mechanisms resulting
Thanyani Pandelani – Bio Engineer spe-
from the detonation of antipersonnel blast
cialising in Human Response Research
mines.
Thanyani Pandelani
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
29
SANRAL
BUILDING A FUTURE SOUTH
AFRICA – ROAD BY ROAD
S
ANRAL is about more than roads. It
post-school technical sector, up from the
For the past seven years SANRAL has
builds people. It builds communi-
current 650 000.
been offering bursaries to students for
ties; and it helps to build a future
State-owned companies such as SANRAL
undergraduate studies in civil engineering
South Africa with the capacity to meet the
will share the burden with the private sec-
and related disciplines in the built envi-
demands of a growing economy.
tor to train a skilled work-force to enable
ronment. Seventy bursaries were granted
Over the next 15 years the country will
the country to meet the growing economic
for a total investment by the company
invest almost R4-trillion in strategic
demands for modern new infrastructure
of almost R6-million. Nineteen SANRAL
infrastructure as part of a national devel-
and the maintenance of existing networks.
employees were awarded bursaries in the
opment initiative to support balanced
SANRAL is already contributing to the
last financial year amounting to an addi-
economic growth in all nine provinces. The
country’s national developmental objec-
tional half-a-million rand.
national and provincial road networks will
tives and intends to grow its contribution
Moreover, SANRAL provides internships
form the backbone on which 18 Strategic
in the years to come. This will be achieved
to engineering students and offers them
Infrastructure Projects will be delivered,
through continuous investment in skills
practical work experience during their
supplemented by a rejuvenated freight rail
development, bursaries, internships and
studies and upon completion of their
system.
talent management within an organisation
degrees.
The planning and implementation of
that currently has a staff complement of
The agency has strong ties with a number
these infrastructure initiatives will place
only 238 people.
of tertiary education institutions. It spon-
huge demands on South Africa’s abil-
It starts at high school level where the
sors a Chair in Pavement Engineering
ity to provide skilled human resources.
road agency has a scholarship programme
at the University of Stellenbosch and
The National Development Plan, which
in place to identify and develop talent in
another one in Transport Planning at the
provides the blueprint for the country’s
the scarce fields of mathematics, science
University of Cape Town.
economic growth path over the next two
and technology. At present 179 learners in
SANRAL cooperates with the University of
decades, has set a target for the country
all nine provinces benefit from this pro-
the Witwatersrand in supporting some 200
to produce 30 000 artisans a year. By 2030
gramme aimed to guide promising learn-
academically talented learners from socio-
there should be 2.5 million people in the
ers towards a future career in engineering.
economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
30
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
SANRAL
It aims to increase their academic, social and psychological preparation for admission to and success at local universities. A similar programme is in place at the University of the Free State to enable and encourage more learners and students to enter into science-related studies. Internally SANRAL has a talent management and succession planning process in place to identify potential, attract new skills into the company and ensure a transfer of skills from senior, experience staff to the next generation of leadership in the fields of engineering, finance, people management, administration and technical skills. Through these initiatives SANRAL is contributing to the broader needs of a future South Africa which will require more skilled human resources, more scientists, engineers, artisans and people with postschool technical qualifications.
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
31
INSPIRATION
MEET BRAMLEY MAETSA Rural to enterpreneural
L
et’s imagine you come from a strug-
is a platform which you can programme
the class there. There he met smarter and
gling poor family and you are offered
to do a whole lot of things. For instance
more passionate learners. When he first
an opportunity to go work at a farm
most companies use it to store docu-
got there he was shocked when he didn’t
or maybe a local shop in your village. The
ments; document management. Some
come first, in class. He came in at 8th
catch is you would have to quit school. To
schools – kids collaborate on programmes
place but by December he was at Number
go work. So that you can make money for
and you want to work on documents at
2. By Grade 11 he was competing with a
the family and be able to get yourself that
the same time. You check out a document
friend for first place. It was always either
cool cellphone and fancy label clothes.
and give it to the next member and they
him or the friend. Whilst this was great he
can see how. See how Facebook works?
did feel a bit uneasy about it:
Would you take the job?
Social collaboration. Big Platform. Sharepoint if owned by Microsoft.
“I was always number 1 at school. And I was very uncomfortable with this feeling
Some learners do. They quit high school and go work – saying they want to make
So, who exactly is Bramley Maetsa?
of being number 1. I was uncomfortable
money to look after their families.
The young boy who refused to let go of
with the jealousy that came with it” said
school?
Bramley, who then told us the following story about succeeding in school:
But, one 15-year old learner, named Bramley Maetsa, decided “no, let me stick
He comes from the rural village of
to school,” even though his mother was a
Gantata, in the Queen Modjadji area of
“In Mashao I had to work hard! After
struggling farmworker at a tea plantation
Tzaneen. His mother gave birth to him at
school we would go home, eat and others
in Sapekoe, just outside of Tzaneen. They
the farm she worked at and so he began
would go look for the cows. But after all of
had no father, he left when they were very
crèche on the farm. “I think that it was
that we would meet as group of learners
young and so Bramley and his siblings
that crèche that instilled some kind of
– we had our own Science group of about
lived from one relative to the next relative
school culture in me from a very early age
11 learners in it. We worked as a unit. If
in different villages.
in my life,” he told us.
a friend bought a study guide they would
It was tough.
To Bramley, education was the only thing
We worked together, motivated each other,
that could take people out of poverty.
shared books and study guides. There
then share it with the rest of the group.
were very little textbooks in those days.
But, 15 years later, Bramley Maetsa succeeded in life. Today he holds a BSc
After crèche he went on to Pipa Primary
Electrical Engineering (from the University
School where he had to walk about 2 kilo-
“We wanted to be top of the class! Wanted
of Cape Town) and is the head of
metres to get there. There were between
to be seen! The raving of the teachers!
Sharepoint* at Saratoga Software in Cape
100 to 200 kids in per class. After Grade
The pride of the teachers. And people
Town.
1 at Pipa, he went on to Khutsong, then
know you as this science kid! And being a
Mashao and then Mphuma High School.
science kid was being a celebrity!
within IT – leader within the portal space.
Now Mphuma, which was in the
“Junior science students looked up to you.
For companies that want to build intranets
Gamamaila village, is the school he reck-
We didn’t even think we are going to be
(internet within companies). Sharepoint
ons really shaped him well. He matriculat-
engineers and make money. It was about
ed in 1996 and was almost always top of
being a celebrity in your school!”
*Sharepoint is a collaboration platform
32
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
INSPIRATION
When he looks back he realises that: “The biggest challenge that rural kids struggle with is not the education, it’s not the academics at a university; but it is the social life. The social life at university is the biggest challenge for rural kids to succeed! You meet a lot of different cultures and people and you have to adjust.” What really helped Bramley to cope well with university is that he didn’t enter the university alone. A university can be a very lonely place in your first year. He saw many kids from Mpumalanga and other
BRAMLEY MAETSA
provinces dropping out of university in their first year because they could not
One of the things Bramley says is impor-
/ bursary applications. By the end of that
tant for rural children is that they must
year he had four scholarships to choose
understand the value of school. People
from.
money to send a child to school, must
But instead of going to university he took
never give up:
up a Denel Scholarship, which started him out in a bridging school first. The bridging
“Not having money must never stop you
school was really to prepare learners for
from succeeding and dreaming. Money
tertiary.
learners from his school group. So they
They stuck together, studied together, went to labs together and passed together. That’s how it’s done! “You want to cope at university? Find like-
cannot be something that will block you The bridging school was run by Denel Aerospace Systems – a company that In order for a learner to succeed and
builds missiles and state of the art mili-
be able to get into university, Bramley
tary equipment. So Denel had a college
reckons that YOU must strive to become
for kids from rural areas where they can
Number 1 in their class so that YOU can
improve their maths and science as well
get a scholarship.
as improve their English. Before going to university.
minded people. If you are from the same school that is even better. Find a group that will accept you as you are, so that you can cope. Many people struggle to adjust because they can’t mix socially at school and in workplaces,” added Bramley. Today he heads up Sharepoint at Saratoga Software; a specialised Information
“We knew that our families would not be able to afford tertiary education. So, if you
In 1999, he had the scholarship, and went
want to go to university, be the top of your
off to study Computer Engineering at the
class!” he says.
University of Pretoria. He spent two years in Pretoria then moved to the University of
After high school he took a gap year and
of Pretoria he came with a group of other continued to support one another.
who come from families that do not have
from school!”
cope. When Bramley went to the University
Cape Town.
Technology company owned by the Sekunjalo group. Some of the things he does include looking after a forensic system which they built for Old Mutual, going out to do business development for various clients like PetroSA and customer
moved to an uncle’s place in Mokopane (formerly known as Potgietersrus). There
After three years at UCT, he completed his
he got himself a job as a packer at Score
BSc Electrical Engineering and immediate-
Supermarket. He was 18 years old then.
ly got a job at Denel as a Junior Software
He would then use the money he earned
Engineer.
engagements among othet things. Before working at Sharepoint he also spent a number of years in America.
to buy newspapers to look for scholarship
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
33
INSPIRATION
One day, he saw an advertisement on “Career Junction” in South Africa – the advert wanted a developer to go and work overseas. He applied and got the job. Whilst there he did many things and even started his own company. America for him was very inspiring, in the sense that he saw people working very hard and he was inspired to build his own platform when he got back to South Africa. He is building a platform to unearth African Thought Leaders. It is an
BRAMLEY MAETSA
African project, called JamiiShare* – an online forum where they get Africans to participate, blogs and sell apps and gen- background does not limit you or it does
events, play sport and listen to your par-
erally take part in the bigger Information not determine how far you can go! When
ents.”
Technology world worldwide..
you think about an idea or going to a particular school, do not think about money
*Sharepoint is a collaboration platform
*Jamii is Swahili – It means community
or how you will get money to follow that
within IT – a leader within the portal
or society of a group of people working
idea or go to that school. You can’t think
space. For companies that want to build
together to achieve something.
like that!
intranets (internet within companies).
What you should be thinking about is,
Sharepoint is a platform which you can
‘how do I become the leader of the pack?’
programme to do a whole lot of things.
because everywhere you go, people rec-
For instance most companies use it to
ognise leaders of the pack, winners. If
store documents; document management.
you are a leader of the pack you will get
Some schools – kids collaborate on pro-
scholarships and funding. People are look-
grammes and you want to work on docu-
Quick Q&A with Bramley Maetsa:
SS: So what can one study to be you or a ing for talent”
ments at the same time. You check out a
mega Information Technology (IT) profes-
document and give it to the next member
sional?
SS: One major tip for rural-based kids?
and they can see how. See how Facebook works? Social collaboration. Big Platform.
Bramley: There are a lot of degrees
Bramley: Stay at school. Bottom line!”
Sharepoint if owned by Microsoft.
that can lead into IT. IT is not just about programming; we even have business
SS: Besides the Science Study Group you
analysts – you can get a degree in
had, what else do you think helped you
Infomatics, Engineering Degree or just a
through school?
Wise Words •
pure Information Technology degree or
“Always strive to be better than the rest. Be the leader of the pack!”
diploma. Er, Computer Science is also key, Bramley: As kids we did three things; we •
“To be nerdy is to be cool. The billion-
as a distinct degree. Electronics can get
went to school, looked after the cows
you in. Business Informatics. There are
and we would play sport. And I have seen
aires of today in this world are the
lots of things one can study.
rural kids of today - there is no culture
nerds. You have to see science as the
of sports! Taking part in school athletics,
cool subject!”
SS: Does growing up poor on not having
being involved in choir communities… that
money affect how far one can go in life?
actually takes you off the streets. Oh, and
is more money for maths and science
forget about girlfriends and boyfriends for
scholarships here in South Africa and
a while! Focus. Take part in community
across the world!”
Bramley: I think the key thing is; your 34
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
•
“Science has more bursaries! There
THE BIG BANG THEORY DST
THOUSANDS OF PUPILS TO BENEFIT FROM NEW
LIBRARY IN PIET RETIEF Knowledge is power
S
chools and the community of Piet
Handing over the library, Deputy Minister,
ity as they seek to improve their knowl-
Retief in Mpumalanga welcomed
Michael Masutha, urged school pupils in
edge and understanding of maths and
the opening of the Mondi Science,
the area to maintain passion, drive and
science.
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
excitement in their mathematics and sci-
(Mostem) Library on 22 February.
ence studies, saying these were the three
The Deputy Minister explained why it was
Built on the grounds of the Mondi Science
most important ingredients for success.
important for him to visit areas such as
Centre, with a R560 000 contribution from
the Gert Sibande District Municipality:
the Department of Science and Technology
“It does not matter where you come from
“Unless we motivate people like you to
(DST), the library specialises in science,
and you do not need money to succeed. All
study science to be able to operate huge
technology, engineering and mathemat-
you need is passion, passion and passion,”
scientific projects in South Africa, such as
ics information – benefiting learners and
he said, adding that the right attitude
the Square Kilometre Array, the future is
teachers from foundation to secondary
towards life was adopting an attitude of
doomed.”
level.
non-failure. He added it was important for govern-
The 122 m2 Mostem Library, located
The handover is part of the DST’s cam-
ment to ensure that the support it offered
in the province’s Gert Sibande District
paign to promote mathematics and sci-
to learners and students in the country
Municipality, complements the ser-
ence education in the country. Over 18
guaranteed a future and a solid career, so
vices offered at the science centre, which
000 learners in this district municipality
that a better story would told tomorrow
include science career guidance and fur-
who visit the science centre each year
than the story that can be told today. He
ther education and training.
stand to benefit massively from this facil-
also acknowledged efforts by the private
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
35
DST
sector to help improve the image of the
She added: “The Department of Education
science lab that the DST had donated
province, citing improved teacher and
reiterates its commitment to making
to the science centre in 2010 were
learner school performance.
education enterprise everybody’s busi-
enhancing learner performance in the
ness. This donation encourages innovative
area, particularly in mathematics, sci-
The District Director of Education,
thinking, and promotes open-mindedness
ence and technology. Previously there
Nokuthula Mthethwa, said the library
and humility among our learners, who
had been no laboratories to conduct sci-
would have a positive impact on the lives should continuously assess their goals and explore solutions to educational chalof the ordinary people of Piet Retief and
ence experiments.
surrounding areas. She also acknowledged lenges.”
A Grade 12 learner at the Piet
the Deputy Minister’s exemplary commit-
Retief Combined School, Mthokozisi
ment to issues of education.
She said the library and the mobile
Madonsela, welcomed the donation, saying the library had played a very positive role in his mathematics, physical science and life sciences studies. It had not only improved his results, but stimulated his interest in the subjects. “Through such assistance from government, Mpumalanga will change for the better. The province will be able to produce more doctors, engineers and scientists to benefit the country as a whole,” he said.
36
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
DST
MEERKAT FOUNDATIONS
COMPLETE Engineering at its best through DST
T
he final foundation for the MeerKAT
years, but are delivering high-quality work
To meet these stability requirements, each
telescope antennae was poured
and making good progress.
foundation consists of eight steel-rein-
on Wednesday, 12 February 2014,
forced concrete piles at depths of between
at South Africa’s Square Kilometre Array
Close to 5 000 m3 of concrete and more
5 to 10 m, depending on the local soil
(SKA) site in the Karoo. There is now a
than 570 tons of steel were used to con-
conditions. A square slab of concrete (5,2
bed of concrete and steel for each of the
struct the foundations over the past nine
m x 5,2 m, and 1,25 m thick) rests on top
MeerKAT’s 64 antennae.
months. Stability was an important factor
of the piles to add further stability. The 32
in the construction.
“holding down” bolts are pre-assembled
The MeerKAT is the South African precur-
in a circle to form a steel ring cage, or so-
sor to the SKA telescope, which is to be
Tracy Cheetham, general manager for
called “bird’s nest”, into which the concrete
built in Africa and in Australia. The SKA
infrastructure and site operations at SKA
is cast.
Project is an international enterprise to
South Africa, explains: “The foundations
build the largest radio telescope in the
were constructed to stringent specifica-
All other MeerKAT infrastructure should
world.
tions to ensure that the antennae would
be complete by the end of March this year.
be exceptionally stable.
Finishing touches are under way in the
The completion of the foundations is a
Karoo Array Processing Building (KAPB)
major milestone in the construction of the
Even at wind gusts of up to 69 km/h sci-
MeerKAT, which will become an integral
entists must be able to point the dishes
part of the SKA project. The scientists and
at distant celestial objects in an exact
The primary focus for the next two
engineers working on the MeerKAT face
manner, and the antennae must be able to
months will be on verifying that all
a challenging schedule over the next two
survive wind speeds of up to 144 km/h.”
infrastructure functions according to the
and the power facility.
required specifications. Testing involves cold and hot commissioning. Cheetham explains: “During cold commissioning the power is connected without switching on the equipment. During hot commissioning the machines are turned on and tested for a period of time.” The ducting for the fibre-optic cable has been completed, so all that is left now is for the contractor to pull the cable through and connect it.
38
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
25 YEARS OF THE EXTRAORDINARY TCTA is a state-owned liability management entity responsible for bulk raw water infrastructure development
TCTA Career Opportunities The Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) is proud to contribute towards a system which aims to deliver a sustainable water supply across Southern Africa. Our specialist skills, from sourcing project finance to planning, design and construction, place TCTA in the ideal position to facilitate development of bulk raw water infrastructure. From an initial single project, TCTA now manages a portfolio of nine. These are the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase 1; the Berg Water Project (Western Cape); the Vaal River Eastern Subsystem Augmentation Project (Mpumalanga); the Mooi-Mgeni Transfer Scheme Phase 2 (KZN Midlands); the Olifants River Water Resource Development Project Phase 2 (Limpopo); the Mokolo-Crocodile (West) Water Augmentation Project (Limpopo); the Komati Water Scheme Augmentation Project (Mpumalanga) and, more recently, the Acid Mine Drainage Project (Gauteng) and the Metsi Bophelo Borehole Project (across six provinces). TCTA is also expected to play a key role in the funding of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase 2, the implementation of which was announced in a joint statement issued in August 2011 by the Governments of Lesotho and the Republic of South Africa. I
“TCTA launched Project Naledi in 2005 with the expressed aim of recruiting, funding and employing youths from previously disadvantaged areas, with particular focus on rural areas.”
This was contrived as a contribution to the government’s transformation agenda of the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa (ASGISA), the Joint Initiative on Priority Skills Acquisition (JIPSA) and the National Human Resource Strategy. The JIPSA framework broadly identified developing scarce skills in the following high priority areas: • • •
Engineering and planning skills for jobs in transport, communications and energy; Engineering projects for cities and towns, to meet the needs of municipalities; Management and planning skills in education, health and municipalities.
The project intends to: • • • • •
Identify deserving and capable students from disadvantaged communities; Recruit candidates into engineering, project management, finance and accounting disciplines; Support the candidates throughout their studies by providing academic tutoring and mentoring; Provide specific and on-going support to the students that enter into accounting and engineering fields through regular follow-up sessions; and Develop a model for increasing participation of youth into the scarce skills category
All the above services are in support of government’s developmental agenda to make a better life for all. TCTA is committed to assisting government to achieve its socio-economic objectives.
For more information on TCTA visit: www.tcta.co.za or call +2712 6831200
INVESTEC
INVESTEC Celebrating the perfomance of Promaths Matric learners
P
romaths, run in partnership with the
extra lessons over the last three years, they
Kutlwanong Centre for Maths, Science
have also acquired an amazing work ethic
and Technology, is Investec’s leading
which will stand them in good stead, both
academic programme for learners in grades 10,
in their studies and professional careers.
11 and 12. The programme saw its tenth year
Congratulations to the Promaths class of
of operation begin with awards ceremonies
2013, they have done us proud and we
held in QwaQwa on Friday 24 January and
look forward to maintaining our relation-
in Sandton on Tuesday 28 January. The cer-
ship with them.”
emony celebrated the exceptional performance of 2013 matric learners. Launched in 2005,
With the recent release of the matric
Promaths continues to support the secondary
results, the quality of passes in the sub-
schooling system by providing intensive addi-
jects of Maths and Physical Science has
tional tuition to students studying Pure Maths
once again come to the fore. Commenting
and Physical Science.
on this, Tumelo Mabitsela, managing director of Kutlwanong said, “Realising the
Of the 268 Promaths learners who wrote the
urgency around this issue and the impact
matric Maths exam last year, over 100 achieved
it is likely to have on the current skills’
distinctions. 226 learners wrote Physical
shortage South Africa faces, we launched
Science and 100 received distinctions.
four new centres in different provinces to increase the provincial footprint of the
Setlogane Manchidi, head of Social Investment
programme. This expansion and its poten-
at Investec, said that with such excellent pass-
tial is something we are very proud of.”
es in Maths and Science, Promaths learners had not only increased their range of career
“With more than 80 percent of school leav-
choices but were now better positioned to gain
ers obtaining matric results ranging from
entry into universities and to access the much
50 to 100 percent in Maths and Science,
needed bursaries and scholarships.
Kutlwanong Centres are becoming a beacon of hope to the entire nation of South
“Having set aside much of their weekends for
42
Africa through its Promaths programme,”
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
THE BIG BANG THEORY INVESTECT
INVESTEC
Investec aims to extend the benefits of Promaths beyond the number of schools that any one company can reach. Head of Investec Social Investment, Setlogane Manchidi in his address to the 2013 matriculants said that the Promaths awards ceremony is a major celebration, a celebration of realised potential – many of the learners who started the programme in Grade 10 started with a pass of 40% for Maths & as matrics achieved no less than a 90% pass rate for the subject. To both past and present learners on the programme, he also emphasised that in order
Stephen Kosef
to achieve success, they should let go of old failures & apply a process of bigger picture thinking.
concluded Tumelo Mabitsela.
into mentorship, tertiary bursary and work readiness initiatives to ensure that high-
At the ceremonies, merit awards valued
potential students have every opportunity
at R15 000 were presented to each of top
to excel.
learners to use towards tertiary education. Recipients were those who achieved an
Partnerships are a critical success factor in
80% overall aggregate as well as receiv-
Promaths which has benefited immeasur-
ing 90% and above in Maths. A total of
ably from the combined input and exper-
R540 000 in merit awards was awarded
tise of the Kutlwanong Centre for Maths,
to the programme’s top achievers from
Science and Technology, the Department
Dobsonville and QwaQwa.
of Education, and the principals and
About Promaths
Echoing his words, Siyabulela Xuza a young South African Scientist & keynote speaker at the Awards Ceremony said that the essence of Promaths – discipline & endurance – is the story of his life and he reiterated that it was often his failures that brought him closer to his dreams.
the educators of the schools involved. Promaths uses peer-competition to drive
The Investec Promaths programme
students’ Maths performances whereby
encourages high potential learners in
students are streamed into classes with
Grades 10, 11 and 12 to apply for extra
peers of a similar academic ability. Top
lessons in Mathematics, Accounting and
performing students receive rewards for
Science. Lessons are delivered by quali-
their periodic Maths performances (e.g.
fied and experienced teachers to students
special Promaths dinners) which motivate
from a cluster of schools within a selected
their performance for the next term and
community. Investec has invested in the
Investec hosts a prestigious Promaths
programme since 2005 and sees it consis-
awards ceremony in January every year to
tently meeting the objective of producing
recognise and reward outstanding Maths
ambitious high school graduates who are
performers.
equipped to undertake tertiary studies and empowered with the necessary skills to
The driving objective behind Promaths
pursue rewarding careers. The initiative
has always been to develop a model that
is part of an ongoing Investec education
can be successfully replicated and spon-
strategy which extends beyond Promaths
sored by other corporates. In this way,
44
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
Setlogane Manchidi
DST
NOKIA'S FREE MATHS SERVICE Easy learning
N
okia and the Department of
this very helpful tool.
Science and Technology (DST) launched the Nokia Mobile
MoMaths was piloted in 2009, and after
Mathematics (MoMaths). So what exactly
five years of making sure it met students
is this MoMaths thing: well it’s a mobile
needs it is now officially available to the
phone service that helps learners from
public. Who says we can’t make even bet-
grades 10 to 12 to understand mathemat-
ter use of today’s available technology
ics better.
huh!
improve your different science related subjects through the use of technology. I hope
So any student with a data-enabled
The new service is fully browser-based
you are not scared because its all so easy
mobile phone (a phone that can access
and works on any phone, tablet or PC
and the more you learn about it the more
the internet) can now make use of more
without needing to download an app.
exciting and useful it is.
than 10 000 exercises that are at different
After a quick sign-up process, students
difficulty levels and also work with other
can practise problems in a number of
“In addition, the department has a dedi-
people comparing their achievements.
categories like finance, trigonometry, cal-
cated programme to collaborate with
Students will also be able to get guidance
culus and statistics. So in other words you
multinational ICT companies that have
on how to progress.
don’t need a smartphone to be able to use
operational presence in SA, such as Nokia,”
MoMaths.
says Morwane.
nering with South African mobile opera-
While working on questions, learners can
There are different types of questions
tors Cell C and MTN to zero rate the data
read background theory, see examples of
and these include multiple-choice; true of
for MoMaths. The service will therefore
solved problems and engage with oth-
false; open-ended and step-by-step (to test
be free for students. So we won’t have to
ers. Points are awarded for successfully
understanding the steps of solving an exer-
worry about having any airtime to access
completed exercises and a learner can
cise as opposed to learning by heart). The
compete with other students and even
questions are randomised and start at level
share points!
1 (easy) and become a bit more challenging
To make it all even easier, Nokia is part-
as it moves on. Jeanette Morwane, DST director for ICT and services industry, says the department
So there you have it. Yet another super
will do even more to increase public and
present from DST. Pass on the word and tell
private investment in the Information
everyone about this wonderful service. And
technology sector. What this means to
above all make sure you make use of it. It
you the student is simply that DST will
will definitely help you with your studies.
be doing more to make sure you have all the tools necessary for you to practise and 46
Science Stars Magazine Issue 4 | www.sciencestars.co.za
Just go to (www.momaths.nokia/za).