The DBE hosted its inaugural National Technology, Coding and Robotics Olympiad at the Kopanong Hotel in Benoni on 3 December 2025, marking an exciting and inspiring milestone for South African learners. A total of 72 learners from seven provinces, supported by their teachers and provincial coordinators, gathered to showcase their growing knowledge of technology along with their skills in coding and robotics. With both Grade 7 and 9 learners participating, the Olympiad stood as a truly national platform committed to nurturing young innovators. For many, this was far more than a competition; it was a moment to step confidently into a future filled with possibility.
Technology education was introduced into the South African curriculum to equip learners with the skills needed to become engineers, technicians, and artisans who can thrive in a fast paced, technology driven world. It also aims to build a digitally literate society capable of navigating the demands of the 21st Century. Welcoming learners and teachers, Mr Patrick Ntenjwa from the Gauteng Department of Education applauded their dedication and emphasised the importance of initiatives like the Olympiad in encouraging creativity, problem solving and digital fluency. He urged learners to see these skills as tools that will empower them to shape South Africa’s technological future.
The day was filled with engaging, hands-on sessions. Mr Sibusiso Ntombela, also from the Gauteng Department of Education, led interactive lessons on technology education for the senior phase, breaking down coding and robotics concepts in simple, practical ways. Learners asked questions, explored new ideas, and applied their knowledge in real time, showing how curiosity continues to be a powerful driver of discovery.
Participants then moved into practical challenges where they built and tested robotic models. From connecting components to coding movements, learners experienced firsthand the thrill of bringing ideas to life. Adding to the excitement, the CEO of Brightstone Education, Mr Bongani Miya, spent time motivating the learners and guiding them through their activities. His message encouraged them to embrace coding and robotics as gateways to endless opportunities.
The competition was organised into two categories, Grade and Subject. The results were as follows: Technology Olympiad Grade 7: Gauteng achieved first place, whilst two learners from the Eastern Cape tied for second place in this category; Grade 9: Gauteng secured the top three positions. Coding and Robotics; Olympiad Grade 7 Robotics Challenge: Mpumalanga delivered an outstanding performance and excelled in this category; and Grade 9 Coding and Robotics Challenge: The Free State claimed first place.
Reflecting on the event, Mr Jones Christo from the DBE noted that the Olympiad represented far more than competition outcomes; it highlighted the power of creativity, collaboration and perseverance. These young learners demonstrated that with curiosity, commitment and resilience, there are no limits to what they can achieve. With ongoing support from the DBE, provincial departments, schools and partners, South Africa is steadily cultivating a new generation of innovators, problem solvers and leaders ready to embrace technology and shape a brighter, smarter future.
The future belongs to those who dare to learn, create and innovate, and these learners have already begun lighting the way forward.