Tsakani – Funukukhanya Primary School learner Boitumelo Kokong recently participated in the Grade Six Provincial Science Fair competition that was held at Summerfield Primary School in Boksburg.
Kokong won multiple certificates, medals, trophies, a stationery pack and a tablet for placing second at the provincial level.
Educator Langelihle Sithole helped the learners prepare for the science fair by teaching them the standards of the competition, what is expected of them, how to analyse their research and experiments, data and how to conclude their work.
“Sibongile Tseki helped the learners develop presentation skills as this was of extreme importance in terms of the learner’s succeeding.
“A science fair aims to assist learners by providing a structured environment in which they can actively engage with scientific concepts and practices.
“Through hands-on projects, learners get to explore topics of personal interest, formulating questions, creating hypotheses, and conducting experiments to find answers. This process encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity as learners navigate the scientific method from start to finish,” said Sithole.
Sithole mentioned that science fairs promote skills such as time management, research, and data analysis, all of which are valuable for academic success.
“Presenting their findings helps learners develop communication skills and gain confidence, especially as they explain complex ideas in a clear, engaging manner.
“By participating in science fairs, students experience the process of discovery and gain a deeper appreciation for science, fostering curiosity and a lifelong love of learning,” he added.
He cited that the focus of the competition was to encourage learners to find ways that will try to solve problems that we face in our everyday lives using the scientific method.
He added that this is a systematic approach to investigation that scientists use to explore observations, answer questions, and test hypotheses.
“It involves several key steps designed to provide an objective, reliable path to understanding natural phenomena. The children who participated in a science fair faced several challenges, from choosing a project to presenting their findings.
“Selecting a suitable topic was a bit daunting, as learners had to balance their interests with the scope and complexity of the project, under time constraints.
“Research and experimentation were challenging as well, especially when resources like equipment, materials, or guidance offered to learners had to be limited.
“Many struggled with planning and organising their time, which was essential for conducting experiments, analysing data, and preparing a presentation,” added Sithole.
Kokong said she enjoyed participating in the competition highlighting that it was challenging yet interesting because the setting was more formal than the previous round of the competition.
“I got to meet a few people and formed friendships. I expected the judges to be strict but they were friendly. My parents and siblings supported me throughout the competition. And for that, I am beyond grateful.
“I am happy with how I performed in the completion. I was aiming to win fourth or fifth position but through God’s grace, my parent’s support and my teacher’s great mentorship, I got higher than I had expected,” she said.
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She pointed out that she aspires to become a scientist or a psychologist when she grows up.
School principal Mashudu Maseko said Kokong elevated the profile of the school beyond comprehension, saying her level of confidence scares most teachers and learners in their school.
“She is a war horse, knows how to dedicate herself to any task given and always produces 110%. Her intelligence is impressive beyond comprehension and she showcases it effortlessly.
“The school, her family and the community will benefit shortly from her existence. It’s a blessing to work with her humble nature. Most teachers she interacts with are proud of her. She’s just a child but a future leader of note,” said Mashudu.
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