Media Monitoring Africa (MMA) awards a GLAD [1] to GroundUp for its positive coverage of learners from Carnarvon High School in the Northern Cape who represented South Africa at the World Robot Olympiad Open Championship in Ljubljana, Slovenia.
An article titled, Karoo learners in international robotics competition (16/09/2025) written by Zola Hollie, highlights the achievements of two teams, Automation Avengers and Circuit Breakers, who secured silver and bronze medals respectively in the prestigious international competition. The journalists not only celebrate the learners’ success but also sheds light on the broader importance of investing in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education for young people in rural communities. Voices from the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) emphasise how robotics programmes are equipping learners with essential skills while bridging educational divides. Importantly, the learners were accessed extensively, with their perspectives and experiences incorporated throughout the story, giving them agency and allowing readers to appreciate the impact of such opportunities directly from the children themselves.
By focusing on the learners’ achievements, aspirations, and personal reflections, the report affirms children’s right to be heard and to participate in cultural and educational life, as protected under Article 12 and Article 29 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)[2].
MMA commends GroundUp for highlighting this inspiring story and for recognising the resilience and potential of young people, particularly those from rural and historically underrepresented communities. By portraying children as capable, innovative, and ambitious, the article challenges stereotypes and reinforces the message that every child has the right to thrive.
MMA encourages more media outlets to showcase stories that highlight children’s achievements, amplify their voices, and promote access to educational opportunities that shape their futures.
Written by Siphokazi Pikoko
Edited by Ntombifuthi Kubeka
[1] GLADs represent good practice, where the media has promoted the rights and welfare of children.
[2] https://www.ohchr.org/en/instruments-mechanisms/instruments/convention-rights-child