S.E.T. for socio-economic growth
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Bonga would like to see many scientists enter the field of healthcare, especially in underdeveloped countries, and would like to find a cure for cancer.
I am passionate about science, particularly human biology, which I have been extremely interested in since my school journey. My interest in understanding the human body’s complex systems led me to pursue a career in medicine. By doing medicine, I think I will contribute to the advancement of medical research. I am excited about the prospect of applying scientific principles to real-world problems and improving patient outcomes.
My strong foundation in science and problem-solving skills drives my enthusiasm for medical research, particularly in finding a cure for cancer. As one of the most pressing global health issues, cancer affects millions of people worldwide, and its rapid growth demands urgent attention. I am eager to utilise my problem-solving abilities to contribute to fight against health issues. I believe that tackling this complex disease requires innovative solutions, and I am passionate about being part of the effort to find a cure.
I would like to see many scientists enter the field of healthcare, especially in underdeveloped countries, not just working to maintain a good human health but in doing research to find other ways to improve the quality of healthcare.
I matriculated at Izazi Secondary school in Newcastle, KZN province. It is situated in a rural area with limited resources but hardworking pupils and teachers. My school is one of the most underdeveloped schools in my district. The worst part is that it has only a few classes, which are unable to accommodate all learners. However, the school is noticed due to the school’s strong performance, especially in mathematics and physical science. My teachers worked very hard to make our school the best it can be as they compete with other schools in my district.
I am a person who loves to be challenged, and these subjects gave me just that, I also like problem solving. I liked teaching others as well as to make them attain the understanding I possess. Honestly, I found myself doing well in these two subjects, especially in mathematics from my lower grades. I was excited in choosing physics as a choice of study in grade 10. If it was possible l would have chosen to do only physics and mathematics at school. My teachers and my classmates were the ones who inspired me because they had faith in me. As I mentioned I was the one who taught physics in my school to those who wanted to have a deeper understanding, and even outside my school as I was invited to other schools to teach these subjects.
They cram, they do not practise, and they are discouraged. Many people do not believe in science, especially those who live in rural areas, but most of them they do not understand science as a result of insufficient resources and too few well-trained educators. They must work together so that alternate points of view can arise to prompt thinking and better understanding. They must also prioritise these subjects as they require special attention.
Make sure you understand the basics so that you have a good foundation. During my matric year, whenever I started a new topic, I would go back to my Grade 10 notes to ensure I had a solid foundation. I did this because I truly believe, 100%, that, having been taught all the necessary information and trained in all the required skills, there is no reason we cannot apply them fully. I believe we should not limit ourselves. Therefore, in physics if you want to do well take all pieces of information, even if it is small because it is not about understanding a single piece, but it is about integrating all those pieces.
Beware of closing dates, always check for the calibre of scientific research in the institutions. I would like to emphasise this to those who like to continue with science, apply to the best university or the top five in South Africa (SA), so that you can access things easily and get as many opportunities as possible. For example, I chose the University of Cape Town (UCT) because it is the best in Africa in medicine now, this isa n advantage for me because I can continue with my research as I am in contact with top researchers and I will be trained to be one of them.
Success depends on how dedicated you are. If you want to achieve something, you need to have a clear, achievable goal and take deliberate steps toward it. What worked for me is that I do not have much of a personal life – my life revolves around science and my career. However, if you do have a personal life, you must ensure that you prioritize your goal. Ultimately, having a clear goal is what creates an achiever.
The 4IR is upon us, we must adapt to the changes it has introduced. Since science is the backbone of today’s society, we should study courses related to it. This is not about doing high quality courses under science, but if you are in this field you can contribute as much as you can, it depends on your skills and ideas.
Thank you so much for pushing us, I wish our teachers can be more accommodative of learners who are not the brightest and struggling with science, and be patient with them. Most of them have good ideas for this world but the matter is that they are not informed about science and its importance. But if teachers work hard to help learners see the importance of science, it will lead to great results.
I would choose South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. I would plead with him to provide science resources to underdeveloped schools as there are learners who would like to perform experiments. I would also like to conduct scientific research at a young age so that I can develop these skills early. This way, we can be taken seriously and given as many opportunities as possible, because we are scientists. The problem is that we cannot easily connect with other scientists around the world to collaborate on achieving our goals. Therefore, investment in organisations that promote science, such as the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF), would be invaluable.
S.E.T. for socio-economic growth
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