KNYSNA NEWS - Percy Mdala High School's Grade Eight and Grade Nine learners showcased their technical skills and teamwork at a robotics competition hosted by Concordia High over the weekend of 6-8 March.
The Grade Eight team impressed judges and spectators alike, achieving both first and second place in their category, while the Grade Nine learners secured first place, beating stiff competition from schools including Concordia, Rheenendal High and Knysna Secondary.
The competition tested participants on their ability to design, build and programme robots to complete specific challenges.
As part of the challenge, teams were tasked with designing and programming a robot to assist with unmanned operations on the Martian surface. The robot would form a crucial part of preparations for future human settlement on Mars.
It must operate efficiently and carefully, as a single mistake could jeopardise the entire mission and result in the loss of valuable time and resources. The robot's tasks include moving delicate equipment, offloading supply shuttles, mining and transporting valuable ore, and maintaining algae tanks that produce the oxygen required for the successful terraforming of Mars for future human habitation.
"This is a remarkable achievement for our learners. Their dedication and teamwork have not only brought home top honours but also highlighted the talent and potential of our students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (Stem) fields," said a school spokesperson.
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