This year's event marks a significant milestone in the journey to bridge the digital divide and empower young minds with the tools to solve real-world problems through technology, says the company.

The Kuunda Disrupt Programme, a flagship initiative by Standard Bank Group Technology, is designed to ignite curiosity and foster innovation among learners from under-resourced schools. These schools often lack access to IT labs, coding classes, or robotics education, making the achievements on display even more remarkable, adds the company.

Over the past several months, participating learners were introduced to coding and digital problem-solving using Raspberry Pi and Micro:bit kits, guided by dedicated technical mentors. The challenge was simple yet profound: create a solution that addresses a pressing issue in their school or community, says the company.

The results showed that despite having no prior technical background, the learners demonstrated ingenuity and resilience, producing projects that reflect the realities and priorities of their communities, adds the company.

From water conservation to flood prevention and sustainable farming, the themes of the winning projects aim to underscore the urgent challenges faced by KwaZulu-Natal, a province that has endured devastating floods and water-related crises in recent years, says the company.

Among the standout innovations was the Water Alert System developed by Gordon Road Girls' School. This practical solution detects leaking taps and sends real-time alerts, helping to prevent water wastage and promote environmental responsibility. In a region where water scarcity and infrastructure issues are common, this project aims to offer a simple yet effective way to conserve a vital resource, add the company.

Equally impressive was the Flood Monitoring System created by Glenashley Primary School. Designed to protect informal settlements from flooding, the system uses sensors to provide early warnings, potentially saving lives and property during heavy rains. KwaZulu-Natal has suffered significant flood damage in recent years, and this project reflects the learners' deep understanding of the vulnerabilities within their communities, says the company.

St Anthony's Primary School took a different but equally impactful approach with its Smart Farm project. This fully automated farming system aims to address multiple challenges, including job shortages, water conservation and energy efficiency, adds the company.

By integrating sensors and automation, the Smart Farm optimises agricultural operations, demonstrating how technology can drive sustainable food production and economic resilience, says the company.

"These learners have shown us that innovation isn't limited by resources or experience. The projects speak to the heart of their communities' needs and prove that technology can be a powerful tool for social change. What we witnessed today is not just a showcase of creativity, but a glimpse into a future where young South Africans are equipped to lead in the digital economy," says Sershni Govender, Standard Bank Head of Innovation, Kuunda Disrupt.

The Standard Bank Kuunda Disrupt programme is aimed at unlocking potential, building confidence and creating pathways for learners who might otherwise be excluded from the digital economy. South Africa faces a critical shortage of skilled professionals in technology, and programmes like Kuunda aim to be essential to developing a deep and diverse pool of talent for the future, says the company.

The Kuunda Disrupt Programme has already made significant strides across Africa, with STEAM academies launched in Zambia, Botswana, Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape, adds the company.

Past participants have gone on to win national competitions, introduce robotics as a subject in their schools and secure sponsorships for further development. In KwaZulu-Natal, this year's challenge marked the second major STEAM partnership in the region, aiming to build on the success of 2024's initiative, says the company.

"The urgency of the themes chosen by the learners cannot be overstated. KwaZulu-Natal has been one of the provinces hardest hit by climate-related disasters, including severe flooding that has displaced thousands and caused extensive damage to infrastructure," says Govender.

"Water management and disaster preparedness are not abstract concepts for these communities; they are daily realities. By focusing on solutions such as water alert systems, flood monitoring and smart farming, the learners have shown a remarkable ability to connect technology with social responsibility," says Govender.

All entries in this year's final were of a high standard, reflecting the dedication of the learners and the support of their teachers and mentors, adds the company.

Looking ahead, Standard Bank remains committed to their aim of expanding the reach of the Kuunda Disrupt Programme and similar initiatives. By investing in STEAM education and providing access to resources and mentorship, the bank aims to ensure that no learner is left behind in the digital age. The success of this year's final aims to be a powerful reminder that talent exists everywhere, concludes the company.

For more information, visit www.standardbank.co.za. You can also follow Standard Bank on Facebook, or on LinkedIn.

*Image courtesy of contributor