The Innovation for Sustainability Group (ISG) from the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, launched an initiative called the Thuthuka Kasi Initiative STEM Workshops. The aim of these workshops was to introduce high school learners to cutting-edge technology through hands-on learning using Arduino and sensor kits. The goal is to inspire STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education among the learners. The initiative received support from Professor Oludayo Olugbara, the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics at DUT.
The workshop recently took place at Emachobeni Secondary School in Emachobeni and the Inanda Newtown Comprehensive High School in Inanda. The workshops provided learners with an engaging platform to explore critical concepts in computer coding, science, engineering, and technology. Learners worked in groups, demonstrating high levels of teamwork, creativity, and curiosity as they designed and constructed simple electronic circuit projects such as traffic light circuits and used sensors, including photoresistors, with Arduino Uno boards.
The driving force behind this initiative is Dr Oyeniyi Alimi, the ISG team leader and coordinator for the BICIoT Programme at DUT. He is supported by his team of lecturers, Mr Amahle Khumalo and Mr Phirime Monyeki from DUT’s Information Systems Department, as well as a group of enthusiastic second-year students from the BICIoT Programme. The student team members, including Ms Nomcebo Nxumalo, Ms Mbalenhle Duma, and Ms Nicole Manyathela, among others, played an instrumental role in ensuring the success of the workshops.
The Thuthuka Kasi Initiative focuses on Quintile 2 and 3 high schools in rural communities around Durban. It aims to empower learners who may not have easy access to such resources. The ISG hopes that through this initiative, STEM education will become more accessible, especially in underserved communities.
The impact of these workshops is already evident. At Inanda Newtown Comprehensive High School, the principal was elated. Meanwhile, Mr Sizwe Makhathini, the deputy principal and physical science teacher at Emachobeni Secondary School, expressed his gratitude, emphasising how vital practical learning is for the students. “Siyabonga kakhulu, we are very happy nge-workshop eniyenzile. The workshop was very important, the kids get bored with the theories. So, the workshop that you gave was very important for us and you can see that our kids are very excited,” he said.
Grade 11 learner Amahle Magwaza, from Emachobeni Secondary School, shared how the workshop had opened her eyes to the world of technology. “I wasn’t familiar with technology like that so I am grateful to have just learnt a lot of things that I did not know like on LEDs, how they work, motion sensors, and how they work,” she remarked. She added that the workshop had changed her perspective on future career possibilities, saying, “I think that I can now also add technology as an option.”
Dr Alimi, speaking on behalf of the ISG team, emphasised the significance of such workshops in shaping the future of high school students. “The questions asked by the students during the workshop were truly remarkable. We are excited to see what the next generation will create as innovators and engineers in the near future,” he said. Following the workshops, the ISG team donated Arduino starter kits and sensor kits to the Emachobeni Secondary School, furthering their commitment to nurturing the students’ interest in STEM.
Pictured: Learners attending the Thuthuka Kasi Initiative STEM workshop.
Siphokazi Dlamini
