Online Reporter
Trish Mukwazo
MASIYEPHAMBILI College, a private school based in Bulawayo, recently proudly represented the nation at the prestigious Pan-African Robotics Competition (PARC) held at the Dakar American University of Science and Technology in Senegal.
The competition, which took place from 18 to 19 July, saw teams from across the continent showcasing different innovative projects.
Different countries participated in the competition, including Kenya, Madagascar, Nigeria, Uganda, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Mali, Senegal, Gambia, Burkina Faso and Ghana.
Masiyephambili College showcased its innovative spirit in the Makers League, which featured high school engineering.
The competition was structured into five categories: the AI League, Engineering League, Makers League, Stars League and Tech League.
Representing the college were Xentrie Zondo, Mangaliso Mpofu, Zoe Gumise and Sisasenkosi Moyo, who designed a ground-breaking robot called a mine surveyor robot, configured to enhance health, safety and environmental practices within the mining industry.
The learners were guided by one of the College teachers, Ms Bertha Mtopa Ndaba.
Ms Ndaba said the robot is equipped with advanced sensors capable of detecting gas leaks, identifying ground instability and locating cracks within mines.
“We created this robot that is equipped with various elements to address critical safety concerns in an industry that is vital to many African economies, the mining industry,” she said.
The team’s project was evaluated based on four key criteria;
Innovation: The mine surveyor robot stood out for its unique approach to addressing significant industry challenges.
Functionality: The robot demonstrated exceptional capabilities in real-time monitoring and detection, showcasing its practical application in mining operations.
Research and Presentation: The detailed research, combined with a compelling presentation, effectively communicated the importance and effectiveness of our solution.
Design: The robot’s design was both functional and aesthetically appealing, reflecting our commitment to engineering excellence.
After two intense days of competition, the team emerged victorious in the Makers League, winning the Creative Engineering Award for their innovative solution.
“This accolade not only highlights our technical capabilities but also underscores our dedication to improving safety standards in the mining industry through robotics and automation,” said Ms Ndaba.
The college also participated in the prestigious Robotics for Good Youth Challenge, which featured 20 different countries, held in Geneva on 8 and 9 July where two of their talented learners, Mangaliso Mpofu and Zoe Gumise, were integral members of the Zimbabwe team.
The duo designed a robot tailored to the disaster response mission.
As the college celebrates its achievements, it remains committed to furthering its exploration of technology’s potential to address pressing issues in our society.
“Our success at PARC serves as an inspiration for future projects, and we look forward to continuing our journey in robotics and engineering,” Ms Ndaba said.
Masiyephambili College extended heartfelt gratitude to its mentors, Omorfo Tech Labs, sponsors and supporters, who made their journey possible.
“Together, we are paving the way for a safer and more sustainable future.”
The college, founded in 1999, has classes from Form One to Form Six. A wide range of traditional, technical, technological, mathematics and science subjects are on offer, with a strong bias towards Stem subjects.
All the subjects are examined mainly by Cambridge International Education, Zimbabwe School Examinations Council and other professional boards like the Computer Society of Zimbabwe for our ICDL programme.
