Fourteen year old Phinda Runeli obtained a silver medal for the development category at the Nelson Mandela Bay Region of Eskom Science Expo for young scientists and took part in the national competition which was held at the Birchwood Hotel in Johannesburg from the 25- 28 September 2013.
The CDC Maths and Science Programme This was made possible through a bilateral partnership between the Coega Development Corporation (CDC) and the Department of Social Development (DoSD) that has contributed to the dreams of thisyoung, aspiring scientist. Phinda was first identified as an excellent candidate through Coega’s Maths and Science Programme. The CDC Maths and Science Programme is an educational intervention and vocational guidance programme which seeks to enable and encourage learners to enter into careers in Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET). Up for the challenge “I have learnt a lot and I’ve managed to gain exposure for myself.I can’t wait for the next competition,” said young Phinda. His enthusiasm for science and the national competition is further spurred on by the challenge involved, which is such a winning characteristic for a youngster.“Phinda is one of the many sterling students that have been identified throughthe Coega Maths and Science Programme as well as the partnership between Coega and DoSD. His achievement is something that we celebrate proudly and hope others within the programme will emulate,” said Thandi Rayi, CDC Corporate Social Investment Manager.
Tough competition The Eskom Science Expo is highly competitive with four regions in the Eastern Cape, which are Nelson Mandela Bay, Grahamstown, East London and Umtata Regions taking part in the competition.The expo is a science fair where learners exhibit their scientific investigation in 25 different categories in hope of moving through to the success to the nationals. “Our partnership with government entities is important as it facilitates a process where arms of government are able to work uniformly assisting members of society in achieving the best they can in life. This particular case is a perfect example this,” said Nomzamo Bangani from the DoSD. A big contribution to the skills challenge “The CDC is committed to socio-economic development through skills development.We hope to contribute positively towards a lack of critical skills throughout the province and most importantly the country as a whole,” said AyandaVilakazi, CDC head of marketing and communications.
