A Grade 12 learner from Mbilwi Secondary School in Thohoyandou has turned rural learning challenges into innovation and won a full bursary for it.
Ozwikona Makuya, from Itsani, representing the Vhembe region at this year's Eskom Expo International Science Fair, developed MacSonic, a smart educational app that helps high school learners study more effectively.
Held at Emperor's Palace in Kempton Park from 6 to 10 October, the Eskom Expo brought together young scientists from across South Africa and other countries, including Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Ireland and Russia. During Thursday night's special award ceremony, Eskom announced six full bursaries worth a combined R5 million for top performers.
The bursaries, confirmed once recipients meet matric requirements, cover tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks and a living allowance for STEM studies at accredited South African universities. Eskom said the awards aimed to support young innovators and strengthen the pipeline of future scientists and engineers.
Frustrated by how mobile phones distract learners, Makuya built MacSonic as an all-in-one study tool providing access to study guides, simulations, audio lessons and an AI study assistant. It caters for science, commerce, agriculture and technical streams and is designed to be simple and inclusive.
"I developed and coded MacSonic entirely on my own, using what I learned from the Mimo coding app and YouTube tutorials. It was challenging, but I enjoyed the process because it deepened my knowledge of coding, AI and design," he said. Despite limited internet access, occasional technical errors and a lack of equipment, Makuya persisted, balancing his studies with coding.
The app was tested by learners and teachers at Mbilwi, who praised its usefulness. "Many learners said it made studying easier and more organised."
He credited one of his teachers, who provided a laptop, and his mentor, Orifha Sithagu from the University of Venda, for guidance. Representing Mbilwi and the Vhembe region nationally was a defining moment. "It showed me that young people from rural areas can achieve great things through determination and creativity," he said.
He plans to study computer science and expand MacSonic into a national learning platform. "My dream is to help more learners succeed, using technology created by one of their own," Makuya said.
Mbilwi Secondary principal, Nndondeni Sikhitha, said the school was proud of Ozwikona's achievement. "Our school focuses on maths and science, so our learners are always ready for science competitions. Learners are motivated by rewards and inspired by past winners such as Mathivha Hamandishe, Anza Tshipetane and Thanyani Dzulani."