S.E.T. for socio-economic growth
National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)
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Nompumelelo Menyatso would like to see more sustainable initiatives being implemented in every environmental project to preserve the beauty of nature and reduce the depletion of resources for future generations.
I have always loved art, design, the environment and mathematics. Civil Engineering is the best combination for all. It deals with the design, construction and maintenance of the physically and naturally built environment, and includes a lot of algebra. I developed an interest in construction as I grew up and was always fascinated by enormous infrastructure such as the Great Wall of China, the Eiffel Tower and the London Tower Bridge. I want to be a part of a team of people who construct great infrastructure that is recognised all over the world.
Being a female in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) has always been my goal. I want to own businesses that are concerned with providing much needed services in my country. Civil Engineering is concerned with providing infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water supply pipelines, sewage systems, etc which are crucial for economic growth. Civil engineers play an important role in maintaining infrastructure to ensure that it remains safe and functional for the society. I aspire to be a person who brings great change to the world by helping to further improve our environment and make it more sustainable.
I would like to see more sustainable initiatives being implemented in every environmental project to preserve the beauty of nature and reduce the depletion of resources for future generations. I want to play a role in saving the environment by providing green building designs and construction, which involves the incorporation of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies and innovative designs that reduce resource consumption and waste generation.
I completed my matric at Boitekong II Secondary School. It is in a small township of Rustenburg. The school has very little resources and one is unable to get exposure to different academic fields. Nonetheless, most of my teachers made it possible for me to get the best education to achieve great results in my matric year. They played the role of a parent, and a crucial role in shaping me for the future ahead. Not only did they teach me the things required to pass matric, but they also taught me incredible life lessons that are helping me greatly in my path to success.
In high school, I mostly enjoyed the physics part of Physical Sciences. I loved learning about the different forces in the world, and why and how certain things happen. I enjoyed learning problem-solving skills and being taught how to think outside the box in both mathematics and physical science. I have always loved working with numbers and solving mathematical problems. Studying mathematics and physical sciences broadened my idea of the physical world and how the universe interacts. This has led me to want to pursue a degree in engineering.
The main thing that I think causes people to perform poorly in maths and science is their perception of the subjects. Most students carry the mindset that the subjects are difficult, and you have to be a genius in order to pass them, which is untrue. Both subjects need hard work, dedication and a lot of practice to enhance your knowledge. My advice to learners who are struggling is to get rid of that mindset. Remove the fear that has been instilled in you; that is what worked for me in grade 11 and from there onwards I started passing the subjects, and getting good grades.
The key to achieving great things is sacrifice. Know your priorities, dreams, goals and aspirations. Eliminate anything in your life that prevents you from achieving your success. Do not associate yourself with people who pull you down and do not want what’s best for you. Have courage to go for what you want because you’ll never get the same opportunity twice. A recipe of dedication, determination and discipline will produce great success. Where you come from does not determine where you are going, and your home situation is not a measure of your worth and ability.
Do thorough research about the degree you will be applying for at a higher education institution. Ensure that you will not be doing a degree in an over-saturated field since that will increase your likelihood of being unemployed after graduation. Be realistic about the type of degree and higher education institution you will be applying to, by understanding the minimum entry requirements and whether you will be able to handle the intensity of the degree. Be sure to select a degree that you love and one at which you will be happy to work towards. Without the passion for the degree, you will most likely fail since you do not see the importance of studying it. Pick a university and degree that you like and do not be influenced by what your friends have chosen.
Dedication, determination and discipline are the fundamental aspects of being an achiever. Commitment and enthusiasm for your work makes it distinctly possible to achieve great things along your work-line. “Without commitment, you’ll never start. But more importantly, without consistency, you’ll never finish”, –Denzel Washington…. Having the strength of will towards your work shall ultimately result in achieving success since it grants you the ability to remain focused and disciplined. Determination and perseverance overcome failure.
Do not give up on your dreams. Times are tough, but you can be tougher. There is no longer time to wait for a person to employ you, you must be the employer. Let us adopt a mind-set of entrepreneurship. There are always alternative ways to reaching your goals; you just have to explore all your options and make the best out of your situation. Create your own luck. Where you come from is not a measure of your worth and ability, you will only fail if you look down upon yourself. There is no obstacle too big nor a challenge too difficult to conquer. For the Lord says in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”. Humble yourself and do not be prideful.
I would like to express my gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to my secondary school teachers for providing me with the opportunity to grow and flourish. Your belief in my abilities has been a constant source of motivation and I am truly thankful for the trust you have placed in me. I am incredibly grateful that you have been instrumental in shaping my journey towards excellence. Your guidance, wisdom and unwavering support has been invaluable in my high school journey, and I am profoundly thankful for it, for it has brought great strength and joy in my life. I hope you continue doing for other learners what you have done for me.
Siyamthanda Kolisi, congratulations on captaining the best rugby team in the world. Your leadership skills during the games have inspired us, the rainbow nation, with your unwavering dedication to your team and rugby. Your determination embodies the true spirit of the game. Your life journey, from adversity to triumph, serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for millions worldwide. I would like to thank you for being a good role model, showing us the power of Ubuntu, sportsmanship and perseverance. Here’s to you, Siya Kolisi, and the incredible team you perpetually lead to victory.
S.E.T. for socio-economic growth
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