GDE and Honeywell open Gauteng’s new future Futureshaper Lab at UJ Academy Maths, Science, & ICT School of Specialisation

Discover how the newly launched Honeywell Futureshaper Lab is set to transform STEM education for 320 Gauteng students, empowering the next generation with vital skills.

Waydon Jacobs

10 hours ago

Sibusiso Mhlongo and Shivesh Rama (Gr 9) and their Lego project

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) and Honeywell have officially launched the Honeywell Futureshaper Lab at UJ Academy Maths, Science, & ICT School of Specialisation.

This state-of-the-art facility, the second of its kind, aims to support approximately 320 learners from grade 8 to 12 each year with advanced education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Equipped with the latest technology, the Futureshaper Lab will empower students through a range of courses in coding, programming, and robotics. Additionally, it will host coding clubs, holiday training camps, and hackathons to keep students engaged and motivated.

Irsah Tabassum Khan, Kezia Abrahams, and Angelique Davids (Gr.11) with their rocketry project.

Khaled Hashem, president of Honeywell Middle East and Africa, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “our ongoing partnership reflects our commitment to driving technological innovation and addressing global challenges.

“By providing these young South Africans with essential skills, we are helping them shape a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future.” The lab builds on the success of the inaugural Futureshaper Lab established at St Barnabas Maths, Science, & ICT School of Specialisation in August 2022, which has positively impacted 200 learners annually.

Also read: STEM toys beneficial to early childhood development

The new lab is expected to extend its reach by supporting an additional 120 learners, ensuring a robust foundation for future tech leaders. Matome Chiloane, MEC for Education and Sports, Arts, Culture, & Recreation in Gauteng, highlighted the initiative’s significance: “This project is a key part of our strategy to cultivate the next generation of tech leaders.”

Urwah Abdulhakim, Suhail Buckus, Krish Parikh, and Rorisang Matsemela (Gr 8) with their project.

Among the students benefiting from the lab is grade 8 learner Krish Parikh, who emphasised the environmental impact of their robotics project, aimed at reducing pollution in rivers. “Our project can help improve the environment and motivate people to keep it eco-friendly,” he explained.

The Futureshaper Lab underscores the importance of investing in technology education to support South Africa’s development and global competitiveness.

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