This year, Sasol Techno X, the largest career expo in the country drew 20 023 learners in its effort to inspire and enthuse Grade 9-12 learners. Held from 11-15 August 2014, the exhibition attracted visitors from seven provinces and learners from as far as Lesotho. Techno X has been igniting young minds since 2000 and since inception, reached over 350 000 students. The new venue, the Sasol ChemCity Eco-Industrial Park, allowed students to enjoy the demonstrations, talks and modern technology. The exhibition is a platform for learners to engage with real world application of their studies, focusing on mathematics, science and technology, while discovering the exciting world of engineering.
At the opening ceremony, MEC for Education, Tate Makgoe quoted the late Nelson Mandela, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” He said, “There is a gem in every classroom and I hope that through Techno X, more teachers are exposed to mathematics, science and technology. Together, we can make South Africa a better place,” he said. MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Small Business Enterprises, Msebenzi Zwane, said that he was honoured to be part of the 14th Sasol Techno X. “A better education in science for our children can also mean better things for our country. It will develop our youth into more responsible citizens, who will help to build a strong economy,” he said.
According to Wrenelle Stander, Senior Vice President: Public and Regulatory Affairs at Sasol, “For 14 years, Techno X showcases the value of science, technology, engineering and mathematics brought to life for learners from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. STEM disciplines have proven essential in the world’s leading countries and can help us sustain a competitive advantage.” This year, the Sasol Techno X baton was handed to Sasol Secunda, the proud hosts of the 2015 expo – making the expo accessible to more students across the country.
To add to the excitement of science and technology, learners were encouraged to enter the art, fashion show and school science project competitions, where entrants showcased their creativity within the various categories.
The exhibition is not only enjoyed by learners and Sasol, it extends to organisations, such as Astronomy South Africa, Eskom, the South African Police Service and tertiary institutions. This year, the winning exhibitors were;
• Best Show and demonstration – Sci-Bono Discovery Centre
• Best Workshop – University of Limpopo
• Best Lecture – South African Weather Services
• Best Exhibition Government and Organizations – South African Police Services
• Best Exhibition Businesses – Arcelor Mittal SA
• Best Exhibition University – University of Pretoria
• Best Exhibition University of technology – Vaal University of Technology
• Best Exhibition FET Collage – Maluti FET Collage
“We look forward to inspiring a new breed of students at next year’s exhibition, who will ultimately become the scientists, mathematicians and engineers of tomorrow,” concluded Stander.