CHMT Materials Science

Making Materials Science accessible to high schools across Gauteng

This annual programme aims to reach learners with an interest in science, and connect them with knowledge about studies and careers in metallurgy.

We host a poster competition, a career day, and a virtual science club where high school learners can form part of a community of Materials Science and Engineering enthusiasts.

The School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, located within Wits University’s Engineering and the Built Environment Faculty is the host and coordinator of the Materials Science and Engineering Competition and Outreach Programme.

This Programme hopes to increase awareness of Materials Science amongst high school learners through competitions, its virtual science club and careers days. The theme for 2024 is “Metallic Materials for Sustainable Power Supply”.

Here is what you will gain from participating...

Access to the continents finest

Wits University's material engineering courses are consistently ranked as the best on the African continent by QS World University rankings.

Interact with Witsies

This is an interactive programme that will gives learners access to converse with our renowned lecturers and dynamic Masters and Doctorate students.

Engage with fellow science learners

With many schools participating in the programme, learners have a safe platform to nurture their curiosity of Materials Science with peers from across the province.

Join Our WhatsApp Group

Stay updated and connected by joining our WhatsApp group! Be the first to know about the latest updates, and announcements related to the Competition and Career Day

Click the link below to join:
WhatsApp Group Link

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2023 competition Winners

First place was Bethlehem Belay from Hyde Park High who won R5 000
Second place was the team of Tshepiso Kola from Zitikeni Secondary School who won on R3 000
Third place was the team of Rebanngwe Ngulele, Kgomotso Ramachela, Sisanda Dubula, Lindelani Mutavhatsindi from Norkem Park High School who won R1 500

First place

Daniel Brown, Alyson Francis & Anderson Naidoo from The King’s School Robin Hills

Second place

Tameeka Day Conceicao and Sean Mangwiro from Kenilworth High School

Third place

Tshiamo Mongoengi, Tshinakao Tshukudu, Lebogang Zwane & Uthandiwe Mjangqeka from Randfontein High School

Check out these videos from the School’s lecturers and postgraduate students.

Competition Details

Entry guidelines

The Materials Science and Engineering Competition is open to grades 9 to 12 learners in high schools located in Gauteng.

Stage 1

Students should complete the form on this webpage. Student can enter as individuals or groups. School teachers are encouraged to assist the students entering for the competition. The problem to be solved must be identified and a brief description of the solution they have in mind should be submitted on the website.

Stage 2

Shortlisted schools and learners will be informed and invited to the final poster competition.

Stage 3

The final stage of the competition will the judging event where shortlisted candidates give their final presentations and the top three finalists will be selected by a panel of expert judges and awarded.

Submission requirements

The theme of this year’s competition is “Metallic Materials for Sustainable Power Supply“. Learners must to identify a problem within society and then explore how metallic materials can be used to solve this.

Upon acceptance, learners will be invited to design a creative poster using pictures and graphics and, in not more than 1 page (200–300 words).

Entries must include a title, name, school, teacher, and contact details on the poster or abstract.

Prizes

All the top 10 finalists will receive a certificate of recognition in honour of their participation. The top three students will receive a certificate of recognition and an additional cash prize as indicated below:

1st prize – R5 000
2nd Prize – R3 000
3rd Prize – R1 500

Inquiries – info@chmtmaterialsscience.co.za