News

Embarking on an Extraordinary Journey: South African Learners Invited to Explore Antarctica

August 26, 2023

1 min read

South African Grade 11 learners have been invited to embark on an unforgettable expedition to the frozen continent of Antarctica, as part of the Matrics in Antarctica (MIA) challenge. This annual venture is an incredible opportunity for five matriculated learners to explore a different corner of our planet. They will be accompanied by explorer Riaan Manser and will depart from Cape Town International Airport on board an Ultima Allusion cargo plane, before touching down on the colossal expanse of Antarctica after a six-and-a-half-hour flight.

An Enriching Experience

Participants in the MIA challenge will engage in comprehensive explorations of the Antarctic realm, conducting scientific experiments and participating in environmental clean-ups. They will also contribute to the installation of a cutting-edge Huawei I-site solar system, provided by ACDC Dynamics. This advanced technology aims to establish a greener and more reliable power source at the base camp. Llewellyn Warrington, ACDC Dynamics’ solar category manager, shares his enthusiasm for joining the MIA initiative: “We are excited to form part of the MIA team and look forward to educating the students on alternative power sources that promote sustainability.”

Application Process

The MIA program extends its invitation to all South African Grade 11 learners, with the submission deadline set for Saturday, 30th September. The selection process will identify the top 100 applicants, narrow it down to the top 50, and then subject the leading 10 contenders to interviews by the MIA selection panel. The five chosen winners will be unveiled on Monday, 20th November.

Tangible Outcomes

Riaan Manser, who has witnessed the ecological deterioration across numerous global locales, believes that the MIA initiative must yield tangible outcomes. He emphasizes the importance of getting the youth excited about conservation while understanding that action on their part will guarantee a preserved earth. “MIA is on a unique mission not only to drive awareness of the effects of climate change but actually to instill a willingness by role-players to deliver concrete results,” he says.

How to Apply

If you’re a Grade 11 learner yearning to partake in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, submit your application for the MIA competition by visiting www.matricsinantarctica.co.za or sending a WhatsApp message with the text ‘MIA’ to 063 843 2493. Don’t miss your chance to uncover the secrets of Antarctica and contribute to a greener future.

Running Cape Town: A Year of Marathons, Heritage, and Human Spirit

In 2025, Cape Town’s running events paint the city with energy, history, and community spirit. From the lively April Velocity HalfMarathon through scenic vineyards in May, to the meaningful Slave Route Challenge in June, each race tells a story. October’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon shines on the world stage, while November’s Great World Race brings runners from everywhere together. These races are more than just runs—they are vibrant celebrations of Cape Town’s beauty, heritage, and the strong human spirit that beats in the Mother City.

western cape road safety easter travel precautions

Safeguarding Easter Journeys: The Western Cape’s Commitment to Road Safety

Every Easter, the Western Cape comes alive with busy roads filled with families traveling to celebrate and explore. To keep everyone safe, the government works hard by enforcing strict drunk driving laws, offering free vehicle safety checks, and setting up rest stops where drivers can take breaks. Police patrol the roads closely, and public campaigns remind people to drive carefully and stay alert. Together, these efforts help turn joyful trips into safe journeys, protecting lives during this important holiday season.

Latest from Blog

Clouds Above the Cape: South Africa’s Teen Vaping Crisis

Teen vaping is growing fast in South Africa, with many young people using flavored nicotine vapes that are easy to find and heavily advertised. A big study found that nearly one in six teens vape regularly, and many show signs of addiction, worrying health experts. Vaping has become part of teen life at schools and social spots, fueled by cool images online and wrong ideas that it’s safe. Now, South Africa faces a crucial moment to pass strong laws and teach kids the truth before this habit takes deeper hold. Without action, many teens risk lifelong health problems hidden behind the clouds of sweet vapor.

Reimagining the Strand Street Quarry: Cape Town’s Next Chapter

The Strand Street Quarry in Cape Town is set to transform from a quiet, forgotten space into a lively community hub full of sports, culture, and fun. This special place, rich with history and surrounded by vibrant neighborhoods, will become a spot where people can play, celebrate, work, and connect. The city is listening closely to its residents to make sure the new space respects the past while welcoming the future. Together, Cape Town hopes to turn the old quarry into a bright, shared treasure for everyone.

Illuminations Across the Vines: The Spier Light Art Exhibition as a Living Canvas

The Spier Light Art Exhibition in Stellenbosch is a magical outdoor event that turns a quiet vineyard into a glowing playground of light and creativity. Artists from near and far use colorful lights to tell stories about history, community, and technology, inviting visitors to explore and interact with the shining artworks. As night falls, the farm transforms into a living canvas where light dances, sparks imagination, and connects people through shared wonder. This event is more than art—it’s a joyful celebration of light’s power to inspire and unite.

Cape Town’s New Dawn: Redefining Urban Justice Through “Invested in Hope”

Cape Town’s “Invested in Hope” budget puts nearly R40 billion toward building fairer, kinder neighborhoods by focusing on free basic services, support for pensioners, and job creation. This plan helps people who need it most, giving them water, electricity, and relief from property taxes. By investing in homes and jobs, the city is healing old wounds from apartheid and making sure everyone feels part of the community. Stories from residents like Nontombi and Zanele show how this hope turns into real, everyday changes. Cape Town’s bold steps offer a shining example of how cities can grow with fairness and care for all.

the ultimate mother city guide