Wits University awards engineering bursaries to Luke Boswell and Itumeleng Chiloane

The Department of Basic Education is delighted to share the wonderful news about two bright young individuals, Luke Boswell and Itumeleng Chiloane, who have each received a bursary worth R40,000 from the Wits University: Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment. These bursaries are a significant boost for their studies and highlight the success of initiatives like the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, which the Department supports to encourage learners in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

Detailed information

• Recipients: The two deserving students are Luke Boswell and Itumeleng Chiloane.
• Home Regions: Luke Boswell hails from the Port Elizabeth Region, and Itumeleng Chiloane is from the Ekurhuleni Region.
• Awarding Institution: The bursaries were awarded by the prestigious Wits University, specifically its Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment.
• Bursary Value: Each student received a substantial bursary amounting to R40,000.
• Source of Announcement: The good news was initially shared by the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, an initiative focused on promoting science and engineering amongst young people, and then proudly retweeted by the Department of Basic Education.

The Department of Basic Education celebrates student success in STEM

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Luke Boswell and Itumeleng Chiloane for securing bursaries from the esteemed Wits University: Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment. Each bursary, valued at R40,000, represents a significant investment in their academic journey and future careers in vital fields of engineering and the built environment. This achievement underscores the importance of fostering a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education from an early age.

The DBE believes that events like the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists play a crucial role in inspiring our learners and providing them with platforms to showcase their talents and innovative ideas. Our support for such initiatives aims to encourage more students to pursue STEM subjects, which are critical for South Africa’s economic growth and development. These bursaries are not just financial aid; they are an acknowledgment of hard work, dedication, and potential, ensuring that deserving students have the opportunity to access quality higher education.

Partnerships between the Department, universities, and organisations like the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists are essential in creating a pipeline of skilled professionals who can contribute meaningfully to our nation. We are committed to ensuring that every learner has the chance to reach their full potential, and we will continue to champion programmes that open doors to further education and career opportunities. We encourage all learners to explore the vast opportunities available in STEM fields and to participate in expos and competitions. For more information on how the Department supports education in South Africa, please visit our official website: Department of Basic Education. You can also find more news and activities related to education here: More Department Activities.

Questions and answers for the public

1. Who are the recipients of these bursaries?
   The bursaries were awarded to two bright students named Luke Boswell and Itumeleng Chiloane.
2. Which university provided these bursaries?
   These bursaries come from Wits University, specifically their Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment.
3. What is the value of each bursary?
   Each student received a bursary worth R40,000.
4. Where are the recipients from?
   Luke Boswell is from the Port Elizabeth Region, and Itumeleng Chiloane is from the Ekurhuleni Region.
5. How do these bursaries benefit South African education?
   These bursaries help talented students access higher education in critical fields like engineering, which boosts our country’s skill base and contributes to our national development.
6. How can other students apply for similar opportunities?
   Students should look out for announcements from universities, participate in science competitions like the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, and regularly check university websites and the Department of Basic Education’s resources for bursary information.
7. What is the role of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists in this achievement?
   The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists provides a platform for young people to engage with science and engineering, often leading to recognition and opportunities such as these bursaries from universities.
8. How does the Department of Basic Education support students in STEM fields?
   The Department supports STEM education through curriculum development, promoting participation in science expos, and collaborating with partners to create opportunities like these bursaries, aiming to encourage more learners to pursue careers in these vital areas.
9. Are there other fields of study covered by such bursaries?
   While these specific bursaries are for Engineering and the Built Environment, many universities and organisations offer bursaries for a wide range of fields, especially in areas considered critical for national development.
10. Where can I find more information about the Department of Basic Education’s activities?
    You can visit our official website at www.education.gov.za for comprehensive information, news, and updates on all our activities and programmes.