Young innovators demonstrate working prototypes designed to solve real-world community challenges during the YEM Hackathon Exhibition Day.
Fifty-five high school learners from underserved communities showcased their engineering and technology skills at the Young Engineers Movement (YEM) Hackathon Exhibition Day in Johannesburg last week, presenting working prototypes designed to solve real-world problems affecting their communities.
The learners, accompanied by 11 teachers, took part in the five-day hackathon, hosted by ORT South Africa in partnership with Hudaco, from June 22 to 26. The programme culminated in an exhibition where learners presented their innovations to judges, educators and industry representatives.
Throughout the week, learners worked in teams using sensors and microcontrollers to design and build functioning engineering and technology prototypes aimed at addressing challenges within their own communities.
The initiative was established to help bridge the gap between young South Africans and access to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) opportunities, particularly for learners from underserved schools.
