Teenage engineer shines at regional Science symposium
A TEENAGE engineer from Rusape won 5 000 Rands and a silver medal at the prestigious South African Youth Engineering and Science Symposium (SAYESS) held in South Africa recently.
Wilson Katsande (18) who is doing Form Six at Milestone College in Rusape, received the accolades after he showcased his innovative project, an innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics project aimed at revolutionising agricultural yield prediction by leveraging historical data and advanced technologies.
His project was awarded the best Zimbabwean project. Katsande’s partner, Tinevimbo Tasara (18) received a bronze medal.
Katsande developed a project which integrates machine learning algorithms with robotic data collection systems. The project seeks to accurately forecast future crop yields based on comprehensive analysis of past agricultural performance.
In an interview, Katsande explained how his project works. He said that the system uses a group of self-driving agricultural robots that have special sensors to measure different things in the environment, such as how wet the soil is, how hot or cold it is, and how much nutrients it has.
“The system also collects data from past records of how much crops were produced, what the weather was like, and what methods were used by farmers. The AI model learns from this data and uses machine learning and predictive analytics to make sense of it.
“The model can produce accurate predictions of how much crops will grow in certain areas and for certain types of plants. “Farmers and other people who work in agriculture can use these predictions to plan better for planting, using resources, and managing risks,” he said.
Katsande’s teacher, Mr Stewart Mderere said by harnessing the power of AI and robotics, his student’s model aims to empower farmers in Zimbabwe with valuable insights that can optimise agricultural productivity, minimise wastage and contribute to sustainable farming practices.
“Additionally, the project has the potential to provide critical support for food security initiatives and facilitate more efficient resource utilisation in the agricultural sector,” he said.
Mr Mderere said his team made groundbreaking discoveries through their research, and presenting the findings at the symposium allowed them to share the new knowledge with the scientific community.
“By presenting the findings at the symposium, it provided an opportunity for the team to receive feedback from other scientists, which can be valuable for refining their work. It also facilitated collaboration and networking with other researchers who share similar interests.
“The team was exposed to new ideas by engaging in discussions with fellow researchers. It also gained exposure to new ideas and emerging trends in their field of robotics and AI which inspired and informed their future work,” said Mr Mderere.
He also said as a teacher, it is rewarding and fulfilling to have a team of students scooping a number of robotics and AI awards.
“It is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and skill, and it also reflects positively on my teaching ability and guidance. Witnessing my students’ success and growth brings a sense of pride and accomplishment to me,” he said.
The school’s robotics club will in February facilitate a Bridge Building and Data Science Challenge which will be open to all secondary students.