By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Two Grade 8 learners from
South Africa have appealed for sponsorship to support their participation in an
international science competition in the United States in 2026.
Johan Vorster and Gustav
Heesen have been selected by the iMBEWU Science Foundation to represent South
Africa at the Genius Olympiad, scheduled to take place in Rochester, New York,
in June 2026.
The learners will present an
artificial intelligence-based system designed to assist educators in reducing
administrative workload associated with marking tests and assignments. The
system is also intended to generate personalised learner feedback, identify
areas requiring improvement and recommend targeted learning activities.
According to the project
description, the platform further produces class-wide performance reports to
highlight overall strengths and weaknesses, with the objective of supporting
data-driven teaching approaches.
The solution was developed
using accessible technologies, including n8n workflow automation tools, and is
aimed at resource-constrained and rural education settings where teacher
capacity and funding remain limited.
In addition to the AI
system, the learners also developed a mobile application focused on
problem-solving and practical technology application, highlighting their skills
in software development, research and innovation.
The iMBEWU Science
Foundation, which facilitated their selection, noted that it is a registered
non-profit organisation and does not have the financial capacity to fund
international participation. As a result, all associated costs are expected to
be covered through private sponsorship.
The estimated cost of
participation is approximately R50,000 per participant, covering registration,
accommodation, travel, insurance and related expenses, with total projected
costs for two learners and a supervisor amounting to R150,000.
The learners’ participation
is expected to provide them with an opportunity to showcase South African
innovation on an international platform while gaining exposure in global
science and technology networks.
Contact
information
iMBEWU Science Foundation
83 Mitchell Street, George, South Africa
Phone: +27 82 923 1711
Website: www.imbewu.foundation
Email: info@imbewu.foundation
Marna van Zyl (Director)
Phone: 082 923 1711
Lianne
Heesen
Phone: 082 094 3681
