- A Grade 12 learner from Parow High School won the best energy project award at the Eskom Expo.
- This was for his GreenHauler truck design, aimed at managing construction debris efficiently.
- The truck uses renewable energy sources to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.
For Lukusa Tshizubu, a Grade 12 learner at Parow High School, having recently won the award for the best energy project has made him realise his full potential.
In an interview with TygerBurger recently, Lukusa said he hopes to someday become a mechanical engineer once completing school.
He recently impressed judges at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair held in Kempton Park, Johannesburg, with his project titled “GreenHauler – Construction Debris Management Truck”.
In this project, a truck called “GreenHauler”, was built for use in the construction industry for construction debris management at construction sites.
“The GreenHauler truck is designed to feature an onboard excavator arm for picking up construction debris and loading it onto the debris crusher, also situated on the truck. The construction debris can be crushed into smaller pieces, to make it easier to recycle these materials. The crushed materials can then fall into storage bags, positioned below the debris crusher. This approach could reduce costs associated with separate excavators, trucks, fuel, and off-site factories, as all operations are being conducted on-site within a single vehicle,” he explained. The GreenHauler uses renewable energy sources namely a proton exchange membrane hydrogen fuel cell, and two rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
“This transition to renewable energy in the construction sector is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimising the environmental impact of construction activities. Utilising cleaner energy sources will not only improve air quality and public health, but also contribute to a more sustainable future for the construction industry. This project seeks to reduce operational costs, minimise environmental impact, and promote sustainable practices within the construction industry.”
Winning gold
Lukusa was one of two learners from the Western Cape to walk away with a special award at the Eskom Expo.
“Winning gold, a cash prise from Eskom for best energy project, the Shanice Francis Memorial Award from Ekurhuleni Drums and overall best energy project in the energy category at the Eskom Expo is extremely exhilarating.
“I am extremely proud of myself because I had worked extremely hard for the past two years on this project, I sacrificed a lot of time and invested a lot in this project, and I felt ecstatic to finally get recognition for all the hard work and dedication I put into it. It is a great feeling to know that my efforts have paid off.
“These awards motivate me to keep pushing boundaries and inspiring fellow students to pursue their passions in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” he said when asked about how it felt being a winner of the award.
He was also asked about his plans for the future, having won this prestigious award.
“I dream of a better future where new ideas and sustainability come together. I want to be a mechanical engineer and create advanced technology, mechanical systems, and solutions to help solve South Africa’s problems and make a positive impact on the economy. In the future, I hope to start my own engineering company, provide jobs for many people, and encourage young South Africans to be innovative and entrepreneurial.”
Studies
He plans to study in the field of mechanical engineering at Stellenbosch University after school.
“I am passionate about it as it combines my interests in mathematics, science, and problem-solving to create innovative solutions that can improve people’s lives. I am fascinated by the way mechanical systems work and how they can be designed and optimised to achieve efficiency, sustainability, and performance.
“Stellenbosch has one of the best engineering faculties in Africa. In the first year, all engineering students study the same subjects, so in their second year, if they pass, it is easier for them to switch to other forms of engineering if their interests change. Furthermore, I have already received a conditional offer from Stellenbosch University. My biggest obstacle is financial constraints. I urgently need funding to pursue my education at Stellenbosch University,” Lukusa explained.
The other learner from the Western Cape was Salusiwe Mxayiya, a Grade 11 learner at Luhlaza High School in Khayelitsha.
