OUR BLOG

At Christel House South Africa, we recently hosted the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) Western Cape South regional competition—a dynamic event that merges science, technology, education, and robotics. This year, the two-day event saw a remarkable turnout, with 330 students, including 15 dedicated teams from our school, coming together to showcase their skills. Our robotics teams not only demonstrated their talent but also achieved outstanding results, securing 1st and 3rd place in the ‘Explorer Prime’ category and 2nd place in the ‘Robo Mission Senior’ category. Two of our exceptional teams, the Roboboys (Raynen B. and Gideon M.) and the Falcons (Mayizole N., Iyaaz S., and Nathan J.), have qualified for the national competition—a significant milestone on their journey to the top.

Building a Solid Foundation in ICT and Robotics

Our school emphasizes a strong foundation in Information and Communications Technology (ICT), covering areas such as coding, robotics, app design, e-gaming, and essential computer skills. This comprehensive approach equips our students with the tools to excel academically and prepares them for a range of future careers. For Raynen B. and Gideon M., two Grade 6 students from Manenberg who clinched first place in their category, this journey is just beginning. Both have set ambitious career goals: Raynen dreams of becoming an architect, while Gideon aspires to be an engineer.

Insights from Industry Leaders

The event was graced by David Piazza, Managing Director of Systematic Active Equities at BlackRock, who delivered a powerful keynote address on the career opportunities available through skills in robotics and technology. David praised the students’ dedication and highlighted the transformative potential of these experiences, stating:

“It was a privilege to visit Christel House SA and witness the excitement and engagement at the event firsthand. These robotics students are learning so much more than just the specifics of robot building. They are also developing essential life skills such as teamwork, creativity, logical reasoning, and project management. These skills are invaluable not just for tech careers but for any path they choose.”

David’s words underscored the importance of robotics in developing crucial life skills that extend beyond technical expertise. He pointed out how the discipline encourages logical reasoning, creative problem-solving, and project management—competencies that serve as a strong foundation for any career path.

Closing the Digital Divide

Cedric Esterhuizen, Head of ICT in High School and Chairperson of the World Robot Olympiad Western Cape South, expressed Christel House SA’s dedication to bridging the digital divide for students facing extreme poverty and social challenges. He shared:

“At Christel House South Africa, we are dedicated to closing the digital divide for our students who navigate extreme poverty and social challenges. By providing access to technology and fostering digital inclusion, we aim to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, can reach their full potential and excel in today’s digital world.”

This mission is reflected in our commitment to ICT education, which we believe is a crucial pathway to empowerment and future success. Our efforts aim to equip every student, irrespective of their background, with access to the technology and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital landscape.

The Road to Nationals and Beyond

As our students prepare for the national competition in Gauteng this September, they carry with them not only the support of their school but also the aspirations of a community dedicated to their success. A strong showing at nationals could pave the way for these young innovators to represent South Africa on the world stage at the WRO international tournament in Turkey. The potential impact of such an achievement would resonate far beyond the competition, inspiring future generations of students to pursue their dreams in technology and beyond.

A Bright Future for Christel House SA Robotics

Christel House SA’s success at the World Robot Olympiad is a testament to the power of dedication, education, and opportunity. As we look ahead, we are committed to continuing our mission to empower young minds and prepare them for a future filled with possibility. Whether they aspire to be architects, engineers, or leaders in technology, our students are ready to take on the world—one robot at a time.

We are incredibly proud of our robotics teams and wish them the best of luck at nationals. Their journey exemplifies the spirit of Christel House South Africa: transforming lives through education, bridging gaps in access, and nurturing tomorrow’s leaders.