Sasol Techno X, the largest career expo in the country, drew 20 023 learners in its effort to inspire and enthuse grade 9 to grade 12 learners. Held from August 11 to 15, at the Sasol ChemCity Eco-Industrial Park, in Sasolburg, the exhibition attracted visitors from seven provinces and learners from as far as Lesotho.

Techno X has been igniting young minds since 2000 and, since its inception, has reached over 350 000 students. This year’s venue, previously the Boiketlong Sport Centre, accommodated the demonstrations, talks and modern technology, which students enjoyed.

This year, the Sasol Techno X baton was handed to Sasol Secunda, the proud hosts of the 2015 expo – making the expo accessible to more students across the country.

The exhibi- tion is a platform for learners to engage with real world applica-tion of their studies, focusing on mathematics, science and technology, while discovering the exciting world of engineering.

At the opening ceremony, Free State Education MEC Tate Makgoe quoted the late Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” He said:

“There is a gem in every classroom and I hope that, through Techno X, more teachers are exposed to mathematics, science and technology. Together, we can make South Africa a better place,” said Makgoe.

Meanwhile, Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Small Business Enterprises MEC Msebenzi Zwane said: “A better education in science for our children can also mean better things for our country. It will develop our youth into more responsible citizens, who will help to build a strong economy.”

According to Sasol public and regulatory affairs senior VP Wrenelle Stander: “For 14 years, Techno X has showcased the value of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (Stem) and brought it to life for learners from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. Stem disciplines have proven essential in the world’s leading countries and can help us sustain a competitive advantage.”

To add to the excitement of science and technology, learners were encouraged to enter the art and fashion show, and school science project competitions, where entrants showcased their creativity within the various categories.

The exhibition is not only enjoyed by learners and Sasol, it extends to organisations, such as optical and infrared astronomy centre Astronomy South Africa, State-owned power utility Eskom, the South African Police Service and tertiary institutions.

“We look forward to inspiring a new breed of students at next year’s exhibition, who will ultimately become the scientists, mathematicians and engineers of tomorrow,” concluded Stander.