Pupils found out about careers at Sasol exhibition!

Aspiring forensic expert, Samkelisiwe Malindi. Photos by Tana Malinga

Sasol exhibition was a success.

By KOPANO MONAHENG
WE ALL have dreams and ambitions we would like to one day achieve.
For many of us, we need to get an education to make our dreams a reality.
During this year’s Sasol TechnoX, which lasted from 14 – 18 August at the Boiketlong Sport Centre in Sasolburg, Free State, thousands of pupils and students attended the event physically and virtually.
Sasol TechnoX is Mzansi’s leading Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Maths, and Innovation (STEAMI) career exhibition which aims to equip the next generation of innovators with the knowledge and skills necessary to propel South Africa forward.
The exhibition provides a hands-on experience, showcasing various aspects of technology while inspiring pupils to explore the exciting array of disciplines and career opportunities offered by science, mathematics, and technology.
One of the pupils who looked curious at the equipment displayed on the scene of a crime was a 13-year-old, Samkelisiwe Malindi.
Samkelisiwe is a grade 7 pupil at Gugulethu Primary School in Namahadi Frankfort.
“I want to study Forensic Science,” she said.
“Many people commit crimes in our country and most often get away with it. I want to help the government to reduce crime by making sure that criminals are put to a place where they belong.”
Forensic Science introduce students to various biological and physical evidence types found on crime scenes. It covers aspects relating to the scientific basis of the recovery of evidence and the subsequent analysis of this evidence.
Forensic scientists collect, preserve, and analyse scientific evidence during the course of an investigation.
Some forensic scientists go to the scene of the crime to collect the evidence themselves, while others occupy a laboratory role, performing analysis on objects brought to them by other individuals.
Captain Dr Dean Swanepoel, provincial head for criminal record and crime scene management, said matric is a minimum requirement for people who want to pursue a career in forensics. But he also said that matriculants who are interested in becoming forensic experts can contact them at their offices in Bloemfontein to undergo a three year training. He also suggests that schools can even invite them to talk to pupils about careers in policing. This might encourage more pupils to study forensic science and policing.
Gaopaleloe Mothoagae, vice president for corporate social investment programmes at Sasol Foundation, said they are celebrating their 21st year this year since the exemption of the exhibition.
However those in attendance at this year’s event includes Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Buti Mamela; Education MEC, Makalo Mohale and Sasol employees and the general public.