Hyde Park High celebrates victory at Wits Science contest

The annual Materials Science Poster Competition, hosted by the DST-NRF Centre of Excellence in Strong Materials at Wits University, saw a remarkable showcase of young talent this year.
The event, which draws learners from across Gauteng, aims to inspire a new generation of scientists by exploring strong materials’ unique properties and applications.

This year, Hyde Park High School celebrated a significant achievement as Grade 10 learner Bethlehem Solomon Belay clinched the overall winner’s prize. Bethlehem’s insightful presentation on innovative solutions to South Africa’s ongoing load-shedding issues impressed judges and peers alike.

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The competition at the University of Witwatersrand Science Stadium on July 20 featured learners from more than 55 schools. Bethlehem’s winning presentation proposed three creative ideas to transition from non-renewable to renewable energy sources. Her first proposal involved solar panels that could track the sun, maximising energy capture. The second idea suggested wind turbines designed to blend with the environment, resembling trees. Lastly, she proposed repurposing existing coal power stations for alternative energy production.

“I was exposed to lots of like-minded fellow learners who also had some bright ideas,” Bethlehem shared, reflecting on the enriching experience of the competition.

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Hyde Park High School’s communications secretary Avril Wright expressed pride in Bethlehem’s achievements, noting her passion for addressing practical issues with innovative solutions. “Bethlehem is deeply committed to this topic and her ideas have the potential to make a significant impact,” said Wright.
Bethlehem’s victory highlights her talent and the importance of engaging young minds in scientific exploration and problem-solving, particularly in areas crucial to the nation’s future.