LIMPOPO – People often refer to Mbilwi Secondary School, near Sibasa just outside Thohoyandou, as the school that excels in maths, science and English.
Recently the Gr 12 learner, Zwivhuya Vele, supported this belief by travelling abroad to London to attend the 63rd London International Youth Forum.
From July 27 to August 10, Zwivhuya made her school, province and family proud while she was exposed to all things science related on a global scale. She explained the forum was all about involving students from various countries to engage with them and share knowledge and a deep interest in science.
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“To apply for the programme we were asked to write an essay about our interest in science, how it can be implemented to change the world and why we think we are the best candidate to attend the forum. In my essay I wrote about water purification in rural areas and how it could address challenges people in rural villages experience, as they do not have access to clean water,” Zwivhuya explained.
She added that she did not expect to be chosen to go to London and much to her surprise, after a phone call and a Zoom meeting, she was awarded a full scholarship that covered the costs of her flight, lodging and meals.
“I did not hesitate and grabbed the opportunity with both hands. We were lectured by science experts across the globe at the forum and I visited research centres where I could try various science experiments. I also formed great friendships with people overseas,” she said.
Zwivhuya added the trip inspired her to pursue a career in science and urged her fellow learners at the school to not take opportunities for granted, but rather grab them with both hands as soon as they present themselves.
Her teacher and mentor, Tshifhiwa Tshidzumba, said they, as the school, make a point of it to send learners abroad if they perform well in science activities, as they deserve it.
