Siphelele Nketo
SCHOOL learners in Umzimkhulu, KwaZulu-Natal, have created solutions on how to clamp down on rhino poaching in South Africa, using their active thinking, teamwork and tools to fix the problem.
The persistent criminality involving the killing of rhinos in South Africa resulted in the organisers of the coding tournament seeking solutions through coding tactics.
The recent coding tournament in Umzimkhulu gave learners the opportunity to use essential critical thinking skills by participating in a game-based approach centred on protecting rhinos from poachers.
Organiser Mthunzi Mbewana said the atmosphere in the coding tournament was electric with focused and determined learners: “Watching learners navigating levels of the rangers’ challenge was inspiring. Learners were not just solving puzzles, but learning how to think critically under pressure, communicate as a team and realise that technology is something they can create, not just consume.” He added that the coding tournament formed part of honouring the legacy of Nelson Mandela.
The Grade 4-9 learners were from eight schools: Amawushe Junior Secondary, Clydesdale Junior Secondary, DRC Junior Secondary, Emfundweni Junior Secondary, Ethembeni Junior Secondary, Ibisi Junior Secondary, Longkloof Junior Secondary and Zwelibanzi Junior Secondary.
