S.E.T. for socio-economic growth
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Rialivhuwa would like to see school systems change and become more inclusive for everyone.
During Grade 11, I came across a web page that was about the use of programming languages in solving mathematical problems. It was then that I gained interest in computer science and how it is used every day in improving our lives. Nearly all our daily activities involve something that was designed by a computer scientist. The internet, government systems, companies and universities are amongst many who hugely depend on software to run effectively. I’ve also had a keen interest in working with electronics and being able to design and test the components before people use them. UCT gave me the opportunity to study both computer science and computer eengineering, which was a dream come true, to be studying at the best city in South Africa (SA) and the best university in all of Africa.
The potential that computers have in improving humanity is overwhelming. There have been recent introductions of artificial intelligence (AI) tools that make our daily lives so much easier. Being part of the process of making such tools is an interesting prospect. Having to apply my problem-solving skills in my daily life promises to be a fun and meaningful life.
I would like to see school systems change and become more inclusive for everyone. Schools nowadays are places for mind-gifted children to thrive, while some are left trailing in the dust. This causes unnecessary pressure to students, and they end up not learning that much, as they focus on competing with each other. I hope to serve as an advisor to South African schools and encourage them to stop ranking kids against each other as this creates a toxic learning environment.
I completed my schooling at Thengwe High School, located in a rural area called Mutale in the Limpopo province. It is a very good school compared to other schools in that area in terms of facilities and I am glad I had my Further Education and Training (FET) education there. What I like about this school is the efforts that the teachers put in. The teachers are always on time for their lessons and they take caution to not ignore learners who are struggling to grasp the concepts. The teachers sacrificed a lot of time they could have spent with their families by teaching us during weekends and even during holidays. My maths and science teachers, in particular, were like mentors to me. They always advised me on how I can do better and improve. The wisdom they shared with me is the main reason for my high school success.
Problem solving comes somewhat naturally to me. This is a skill that is very crucial to success in maths and science. With these subjects there are constantly new problems you can face during tests or exams. I always loved the challenge of working out something that we’ve never touched on in class. The questions you work through sometimes need creativity to solve. It’s such a satisfying feeling when you come up with a solution that’s not obvious but is simple and elegant.
The thing that leads to the downfall of many learners is cramming information without understanding the content. With maths and science, you can’t just memorise how to solve a certain problem, because there is a 99% chance it won’t appear in an exam again. But if you understand how the solution was formulated, you can work out other problems that are similar but are different in terms of scenario. You don’t really need advanced knowledge to tackle hard problems. However, if you have a solid understanding of the basics, it allows you to understand the problem and come up with an easy procedure to dismantle the problem and ultimately solve it. Another setback that many have is the fear of trying. When you have no clue on how to work out a problem, consult your teachers instead of giving up in fear of failure. It’s okay not to be perfect; not all of us can be Einsteins. Focus on being the best version of yourself and that will be your success.
If you are in Grade 11 or 12, this is the time for you to find out what interests you. Going to varsity or a college is not as simple as it seems. You really have to know what you are good at and very interested in because you are going to spend the rest of your life doing the same thing, rather let it be something you love. This is also a very critical time in your high school career. Do not lose focus or else you will waste the 12 years you have already spent in school.
Apply, apply and apply. Higher education institutions are very competitive as the number of matriculants is higher than the available space. Apply to as many universities as you can, as early as you can, to increase your chances of at least one institution accepting you. Funding is also a huge problem that students face. Apply to as many bursaries as you qualify for. Some open as early as the 1st quarter. Websites such as Student Room show bursaries as soon as they open. Use them and always be on the lookout for openings.
Hard work, dedication, discipline, focus and self-care are the most important factors that make an achiever. The one that’s most important in my opinion, however, is self-care. A healthy body and a healthy mind go hand in hand. There is a lot of studying that you may have to commit to, but prioritising exercise and sleep gives you a sharp edge and allows you to focus and learn better.
Education is a pillar for success. There is a very low chance you will live a meaningful life with minimal education. A trend nowadays is that you don’t need a degree to make money. Only a handful of people find that type of success without education, rather stay in school and persevere despite the pain. It will reap rewards later.
What I am today is because of the efforts you made with me and the advice you gave. The reprimands and love you showed me shaped me into the student I am today. I couldn’t have asked for better teachers and I know the coming generations are in safe hands.
Elon Musk. Elon is living proof that Africa produces excellent scholars. He is paving the way in electric mobility, and he has had a lot of success in a very short amount of time. He inspires me to work hard doing the things I love and always appreciate the people around me. He is not like any other billionaire, he is fun, social and always puts forward the needs of people. From him I have learnt that fantasies do come true.
S.E.T. for socio-economic growth
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