SARAO News

The first cohort of Northern Cape matrics who are sponsored by SARAO for university studies, have completed their second year successfully.

The five students, Janethon de Klerk, Kyle Henderson, Cedwill Abdol, Anver Adams and Bradley Bosman, have all progressed to their third year of studies at tertiary institutions around the country.

Janethon de Klerk (21) says that her second year of studies was nothing but hard work, challenging and required tenacity.  

“This was my most challenging year ever, but there were wonderful moments as well. I learned from my mistakes and failures, and knowing that others believe in me, gave me hope to persevere. The highlight of my year was when I was nominated as a prospective Golden Key member by the University. The nomination was unexpected, but a testament to my hard work. It proved to me that children from the Karoo are capable of so much more,” says Janethon.

Janethon is studying towards a BSc degree in Computer Science and Chemistry at the University of the Free State and hopes to qualify as a computer scientist in a few years.

“I am very excited about this year, but with trepidation. My most important motto is: life goes on, if you lie down, you will stay behind,” concludes Janethon.

Kyle Henderson is 21 years old and is studying towards a BSc degree in Physics and Computer Science at the North West University.

“My second year at university was one of the most challenging and taught me some hard lessons, both as an aspiring scientist and as a person. Sometimes you have to work hard, but you don’t always get the desired result,” says Kyle.

He says that he had to make some adjustments and achieved good results in quantum physics and special relativity. He plans on furthering his studies with a postgraduate qualification next year.  

“The most important lesson that I learned was that you have to continue giving your best, plan early and be aware of your weak points and capitalise on your strengths. Keep believing in yourself and do not get left behind when you experience difficulty,” says Kyle.

“I am very positive about this year and I am looking forward to delivering my best. My future plans have changed slightly, but I am motivated enough to further my studies to take me as far as possible,” he concludes.

“Last year was tough with many challenges, but I am happy with my good examination results – I achieved above 60% in all my modules in the second semester,” says Cedwill Abdol.

He says that the most important lesson that he has learned was never to postpone when it comes to tests and assignments. “I am also excited to learn new things this year and look forward to continuing my studies,” says Cedwill.

He is 19 years old and studying towards a BSc degree in Physics and Chemistry at the University of the Free State.

Bradley Bosman (19) says that he although he fared well in the examinations, he feels that he could have done better.

“My second year was stressful and challenging, but I am excited to go back for my third year of studies. I would like to complete my studies and return to Carnarvon to help my people to educate themselves,” he says.

“University is not only about you as a student, it is also about the many people out there helping you with advice and motivation,” Bradley concludes.

Bradley is studying towards a BSc degree in Mathematics and Physics at the University of the Free State.

Anver Adams is 20 years old and is studying towards a BSc degree in Physics and Astrophysics at the University of the Western Cape.

“I was much more at ease during my second year because I have adjusted well to life as a university student. I had to put in some hard work because the volume of work increased drastically, but I know that it takes me closer to obtaining my degree,” says Anver.

“To be successful you need to enjoy what you are doing and be prepared to work hard and go the extra mile. A good support system also makes a huge difference. I am looking forward to my third year of studies and still hope to become an astrophysicist one day,” says Anver.