Siyabulela Xusa, who hails from a township in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, has a minor planet near Jupiter, named after him – Siyaxusa. The 25-year-old science prodigy is a Harvard graduate and has researched the benefits and affordability of harnessing energy from the sun. This rocket scientist has not only been applauded for his work – he has received recognition world-wide, including from NASA, for his cheaper and safer form of rocket fuel.
Dr Sandile Kubheka made South African history by being the youngest doctor to qualify at the age of 20. He recently graduated with distinctions from the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine in KZN. The hardworking young man matriculated from Siyamukhela High School in the small town of Newcastle, at the tender age of 15.
These are just two stories of young South Africans making their mark in the world of science and technology – there are more. What makes their stories remarkable, is that they were not deterred by their circumstances or lack of resources. They saw it as motivation.
South Africa is ranked 146th out of 148 countries with regard to the quality of the education system, according to the World Economic Report released in 2014. In terms of the quality of maths and science, we rank last. It is a statistic many of us South Africans are embarrassed about.
But just like these successful young men have shown, it should be a statistic we can disprove.
Although there are some gaps in the different levels of our education system which need to be addressed, I do believe that the one thing we have going for us, is the sheer determination of the up-and-coming generation. They belong to the ‘free generation’ – free of the struggle and inequality of our past – but free to make their dreams come true.
With good teachers, willing learners and supportive parents, there will be more South African success stories. Just watch this space.
