Limpopo teen invents hydrogen-powered car | Review

LIMPOPO – Limpopo Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya, on Thursday, 26 September visited Munei Netsharotha in Makhuvha village, near Vhufuli, a Gr 10 learner from Tshivhase Secondary School invented a hydrogen gas powered car.

The visit by the MEC was ahead of Munei’s departure to attend the National Science Week which was held on Saturday, 28 September in Central University of

Technology in Free State to honour the invite by the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande.

The Department of Science and Innovation host National Science Week annually and this is a celebration of the important role of science, technology and innovation in our daily lives, which gives opportunity and encourages learners to take up careers in science, technology and innovation.

Munei is aspiring to pursue a mechanical engineer degree after matric.

Lerule-Ramakhanya said the visit was meant to wish Munei well on his fully funded trip to the Free State and also to encourage him to prioritise his school work as it is the only vehicle to fulfill his dreams.

“We visited him at his home, to wish him well as he heads to Bloemfontein to showcase his talent, and to motivate other learners about the importance of science and innovation. The country needs energetic learners like Munei, who is determined to follow his dreams against all odds. We have no doubt that science week is also an opportunity for him to learn more so that he can push his boundaries. The province is in support of his invention, and we think it will come as a motivation to other learners,“ Lerule-Ramakhanya said.

Munei said the idea of developing a hydrogen gas powered car started while in Gr 7, with the fuel prices rising, he was looking a way to make transport more cost effective by creating a hydrogen gas powered car.

“As I stay in a rural area, I designed a Jeep, which will make travelling in dusty and mountainous areas easier. I dream of being a mechanical engineer, and I urge other learners to dream big, one day, your dream will come true,” said Munei.

Naledzani Makungo, a science teacher at Tshivhase said Munei performed very well during the expo in Bloemfontein and also received science books, which will assist other learners in the school.