A matric learner of De Kuilen High School is among the winners of the University of the Western Cape (UWC) Science Learning Centre for Africa (SLCA) Art Competition, held in celebration of National Science Week – recently announced.
The competition was open to all learners in the Western Cape. They could enter individually or in groups of two to four in one of three categories: The role of science in our daily lives; The role of mathematics in our daily lives; Coding and robotics, and artificial intelligence, in our changing world.
Any medium, including paint, pencil or pastels could be used on an A2-size poster. Learners could also design an electronic poster.
A “gallery walk” took place on campus on Saturday 5 August, when guests could view selected artwork. Prizes were awarded to the best posters on the day.
Stood out
Jesse Barendse, a Grade 12 learner at De Kuilen, won in the technology category with her artwork entitled Will AI (artificial intelligence) surpass any boundaries?
In a note from the competition committee Jesse is lauded for her exceptional talent, creativity, and imagination. “Your artwork stood out among an impressive array of submissions,” it says, “captivating the judges and leaving an indelible impression on all who had the privilege of viewing it.
“Your passion for combining science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics and everything in between has not only made your artwork unique, but also reflects the essence of the STEAM [science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics] movement. Your ability to blend various disciplines in such a seamless and thought-provoking manner is truly commendable.”
The SLCA received 39 entries from 16 schools. Eight adjudicators individually assessed the artwork. Individual scores were entered onto an MS Excel sheet to calculate averages. Criteria included conceptualisation, creativity, technical skill, visual impact and alignment to the theme.
The adjudicators were Chad Frans (convener), Prof Josef de Beer, Zaino Allie, Shafiek Dinie, Gasant Gamiet, Tswakae Sebotsa, Dr Mark Herbert and Bako Audu.
Individual prizes included LegoBoost Robotics kits, tablets and smartphones. The science learners of the winning school will receive a tour of any Iziko museum and planetarium, including transport and lunch. Lutho Beja, a Grade 7 learner from Nkazimlo Primary School, was announced overall winner.
