ERP is a project run by JumpStart, and the Department of Education to support schools and learners to master technology and to encourage learners who excel in Grade Five maths and science to engage in such programmes.
Lekgau, the school laboratory coordinator, runs a robotic programme under JumpStart, an organisation that helps to improve mathematical competence in schools.
“Two of my learners, Mbali Mpanza and Ayanda Chirwa, created two beautiful robots.
“Mpanza created a robot that controls traffic movement in rural areas where there is no electricity. Chirwa created a robot to be used in emergencies,” said Lekgau.
Also read: Hardworking learners rewarded at Tshabalala Primary School
“They each followed easy instructions. Mpanza was instructed to create a robot to ease traffic congestion in rural areas. The robot must also assist to minimise the risk of school children being hit by cars.
“Chirwa was instructed to create a robot that can save lives on the sixth floor of buildings in the event of fire accidents. Those were the instruction,” said Lekgau.
Lekgau said Chirwa created a robot that can lift people from the sixth floor and help them to land safely on the ground.
“Both Mpanza and Chirwa did a good job to create the robots as instructed and using a tablet.
“So all I can say I am proud to have learners with such bright minds in my class,” she said.
Lekgau said she could not take all the learners for the ERP programme. “I took five learners.”
School principal Zenzele Mazibuko said he was happy to have learners from his school participate in such an innovation.
“I am happy the Department of Education came up with such a good initiative,” said Mazibuko.
At the award ceremony on November 15, the school rewarded the two young geniuses with certificates and trophies for representing their school in the ERP programme.
The next project will have the learners representing the school at the Lego League National Robotics Competition at the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in Newtown on November 30.
Also read:Hardworking learners rewarded at Tshabalala Primary School
