4IRI, an empowering platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) focused on advancing impactful technological solutions, is thrilled to announce its victory in the prestigious “Rising Star” category during the closing ceremony of SASOL TechnoX Expo 2023.
This award acknowledges 4IRI’s unwavering dedication to fostering Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEAMI) education, inspiring the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.
This year’s exhibition marked the 21st career expo organised by the petroleum leader, and was themed “Future shapers – discover your passion, shape your future.” Over the course of the week, more than 22,000 learners were hosted, providing them with invaluable exposure to nearly 50 STEM exhibitors.
The exhibition, a captivating tapestry of STEAMI, offered a unique glimpse into the limitless possibilities awaiting South Africa’s next generation of trailblazers.
The Sasol Sport Centre in Sasolburg or Secunda serves as the host for this flagship event, which has evolved into a beacon of inspiration for learners. It not only provides insights into STEAMI education but also acts as a platform for industry leaders and professionals to congregate, sharing their expertise and experiences while showcasing the extraordinary opportunities available to today’s youth.
Looking into the future
Expo attendees were treated to an array of interactive exhibitions and displays spotlighting the latest breakthroughs in STEM fields. Going beyond conventional presentations, the expo featured hands-on, interactive activities designed to challenge learners’ skills and ignite their passion for all aspects of STEAMI.
Exhibitors from diverse sectors, including government departments, universities, colleges, science centers, and private enterprises, collaborated to promote STEAMI in education. From captivating live demonstrations to awe-inspiring performances, the marvels of science and technology came alive at the expo.
Inspiring the innovators of tomorrow
During the event, 4IRI seized the opportunity to showcase its services and technologies, fuelling excitement and advocating for the integration of STEMI in education. One of 4IRI’s incubatees, Thusong Technologies, unveiled an impressive exhibit featuring virtual reality (VR) goggles, display screens, a gaming PC, three drones, a 3D printer, and clean tech prototypes.
What truly set 4IRI’s booth apart was the infectious enthusiasm and curiosity of the thousands of learners who attended the SASOL TechnoX Expo. They found the demonstrations and displays enthralling and were eager to delve deeper into the world of 4IR technologies and the promising future they represent.
Among the slew of exhibits, the Drone Introductory Course and 3D printing technology stood out as being particularly interesting for attendees.
Guiding today’s youth
With such an enthusiastic response from the audience, 4IRI recognises the need for a campaign to promote its services to the schools that participated in the event. The expo’s impact has laid a solid foundation for the integration of advanced technologies into education, promising to equip the youth for the challenges and opportunities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
