TCTA joined other stakeholders at the OR Tambo Convention Centre in Benoni to back the Department of Water and Sanitation’s (DWS) youth initiative, the Water and Sanitation Education Programme (WSEP). The programme educates learners and communities about efficient water use, managing sanitation facilities, protecting water resources and promoting health and
hygiene.
The competition brought together over 300 learners from across South Africa, who showcased innovative projects while competing for prestigious awards. The WSEP gives learners from grades R to 11 an opportunity to identify water and sanitation challenges in their schools and communities and develop solutions.
Competition categories included Aqua Enduro, which combines mental and physical difficulties; public speaking, where participants share insights on water conservation; and Baswa Le Meetse (Youth in Water), which recognises educational efforts in water resource management.
A highlight of the awards was the recognition of Nzumbululo Todani from Limpopo’s Mbilwi Secondary School. The
grade 12 learner emerged as the top winner, taking home a bursary, a laptop and a tablet for his exceptional
performance in the Aqua Enduro category. Khethemusa Mzizi from Gauteng secured second place in the public speaking category, earning a tablet for her achievements. The DWS awarded bursaries to 54 learners, while the Water Research Commission and the Energy & Water Sector Education Training Authority sponsored laptops and tablets. Learners who excelled in the Baswa Le Meetse category received cash prizes of R10,000 to R20,000.
Deputy Ministers David Mahlobo and Sello Seitlholo hosted the awards ceremony. In his keynote address, Deputy Minister Mahlobo highlighted the event’s significance: “What we are doing here today is not a mistake. Apartheid stalwart Oliver Tambo once said that any nation that does not take care of its youth does not care for its future.” He also acknowledged the collaboration with the Department of Basic Education and other stakeholders in ensuring the WSEP’s sustainability.
Deputy Minister Seitlholo congratulated the participants in this year’s event, which took place from 23 to 27 September 2024, for showcasing the bright future of South Africa’s water champions. He encouraged the learners to share their knowledge and inspire others to take part next year.
