Grade 11 learners dig deep for solutions to illegal mining
Top-performing Grade 11 learners from across Gauteng presented innovative solutions to the challenge of illegal mining.
The annual Wits Integrated Experience (WIE) short course introduces learners to university life while challenging them to address real-world issues through an interdisciplinary approach. This year’s case study focused on the impact of illegal mining in South Africa, requiring learners to draw on knowledge from the University’s five faculties before conducting further research and presenting their findings to a panel.
Schools Liaison Officer Msimelelo Tshotyana said the WIE encourages learners to apply critical thinking to pressing societal challenges and develop solutions informed by what they learn at Wits. Learners attended sessions led by academics across the University’s faculties before returning to their schools to conduct further research and develop their responses to the illegal mining challenge.
“We’re very excited to learn the kind of thinking that they will be going through and the kind of solutions that they’re going to bring to the table,” said Tshotyana.
The learners later returned to Wits to present their findings, bringing together weeks of research, collaboration, and problem-solving.
For many participants, the programme offered an inspiring glimpse into university life. Smelokuhle Ndlovu, a Grade 11 learner from Kaalfontein High School, described the experience as both exciting and challenging. “Honestly, it’s great being here, yet stressful because of all the planning. But being in such a prestigious university, I’m very delighted and very honoured to be at Wits. It’s really great to be here,” said Ndlovu.
Hanzalah Kolabhai, Head Boy of Ahmed Timol Secondary School, said both phases of the programme strengthened his desire to study at Wits. “Seeing all the learners come together and present their creative ideas really inspired me. Because of this, I think one day I really want to study at this university and become a proud Wits student.”
The programme culminated in presentations by participating schools, with learners demonstrating weeks of research, collaboration, and critical thinking. Six schools emerged as winners of the Response Plan Challenge, culminating in an awards ceremony where learners were recognised for their efforts with certificates and prizes.
The winning schools were:
Al Aqsa School
De La Salle Holy Cross College
Kibler Park Secondary School
Rand Park High School
Mondeor High School
Waterstone College High School
Cole James, a Grade 11 learner from Kibler Park Secondary School, whose team received the award for Best Presentation, said the achievement reflected weeks of dedication. “I’m honestly so overwhelmed. Sleepless nights, a month of dedication, but it all worked out in the end,” he said. “Part one was extremely informative. We learnt a lot from the different faculties, from science to geoscience to engineering.”
Another member of the winning team, Mualusi Siblei from Mondeor High School, said the experience provided valuable insight into university life while encouraging teamwork and perseverance.
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