Hlompho Innocent Abel Matuludi

Hlompho would like every underprivileged Black child to have access to free education.

Hlompho is studying Aeronautical Engineering at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). He matriculated at Somsuswa Secondary School in Tweefontein in Mpumalanga.

“Hard work beats talent, if talent doesn’t work hard.”

Explain why you chose the course/s you are studying?

I chose Aeronautical Engineering because I love cars and aircrafts. Aeronautical engineers design, develop, test and manufacture aircraft. I chose this course so that one day I can also be able to design some special aircraft.

Who or what inspired you to pursue these studies?

South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). In 2021 the organisation visited our school and taught us about the careers in the aircraft field. This inspired me to pursue this degree.

What would you like to see changed in the world, and how do you see yourself contributing to such a change?

I would like every underprivileged Black child to have access to free education. I would contribute by creating programmes that will help students with financial problems without them having to pay back the money in future.

Where did you complete your schooling? (name of school and area where it is situated) Tell us a bit about this school and your teachers.

Somsuswa Secondary School. A school in Tweefontein in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga. Somsuswa is a great institution that aims to uplift young children and make them better individuals. The teachers at my former school worked hard as a team to help us achieve our goals.

What did you enjoy about physical science and maths at school?

My mathematics and physical sciences teachers were very encouraging and hard-working and this played a vital role in my studies.

Why do you think some people have problems doing well in maths and science? What advice do you have for school learners who struggle with these subjects?

People often adapt to the study skills and styles of others, only to realise that those study methods do not work for them. Learners should find the study patterns and styles that work for them, work hard, and pray.

Any tips for learners in grades 11 and 12?

Grade 11 learners should start working hard in their grade, as this will grant them an advantage when they get to matric. The matriculants should work hard from day one. This will help them achieve their goals.

What advice do you have for matriculants who have to apply for places in higher education institutions?

They should work very hard to have better matric results so that they can get admitted to higher institutions.

Understanding excellence – what makes an achiever?

Hard work, focus and determination.

A message to South African youth in general?

Hard work beats talent, if talent doesn’t work hard.

A message to the teachers at your school/s?

I would like to thank them for being patient with me and motivating me every day.

If you had ONE opportunity to speak directly to a very influential person, who would you choose and what would you say to them?

Bheki Mthethwa, a final year Actuarial Science student at the University of the Free State (UFS). I would tell him, “You are a great motivator, and I appreciate you.”

National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)