The annual Geophysical Association’s 17th conference underway at Sun City outside Rustenburg in the North West is expected to encourage youth to take up opportunities in science and innovation.
As one of the world’s leading assemblies of geoscientists, young professionals, decision makers, and technical experts, the conference aims to promote new thinking, innovation and expansion to collaborate more closely with other disciplines.
At the conference, the scientists and professionals were encouraged to challenge conventional solutions and showcase cutting-edge methods and applications which can bring about effective solutions for the future.
Two scholars who attended the event spoke about what motivated them to study Geoscience.
A 27-year-old Rethabile Tau who is doing her masters with Wits University believes there’s an abundance of opportunities for youth in the geoscience field.
“The reason why I got interested in this industry is because of its potential to solve many of South Africa’s problems, especially the load shedding we have been having – it shows that we are in shortage of natural resources.
“Generally my advice to the youth is to find what they love in order to help South Africa develop. Find what you love but in a way that will make a difference in your country, community and inspire those around you,” said Tau.
Another masters student at Wits, Silindokuhle Majola said she did not know about the field until she read a book that grabbed her attention.
An excited Majola said after she had completed her degree, she got lucky to get an internship at a mine and gained all the experience she required.
She has also encouraged the youth to be curious, as she believes everything is out there on the internet, so one just needs to believe in one’s self, work hard, and search for opportunities.
