FLIPPING BOOK CHRONICLE 2024

We are thrilled to announce that Michaelhouse has been shortlisted among the top 10 projects globally for the prestigious Leadership for Change Prize 2024, launched by The Economist Educational Foundation in partnership with Rolex. This recognition comes amidst fierce competition, with more than 500 projects submitted by 10 000 students across 23 countries. The Future-Fit team of D Block boys from Michaelhouse – Griffon Erasmus, Leo Watson, Jed Reilly and Duncan Roberts – earned this accolade for their innovative project focused on sustainable food production through aquaponics. The team designed a bespoke aquaponics system aimed at community upliftment, combining creative thinking and extensive research with a strong commitment to addressing food security challenges in and around Michaelhouse. This project was developed as part of their Future-Fit curriculum under the mentorship of Mr Sevenoaks and submitted to the global panel for consideration. This achievement underscores the importance of the Future-Fit skills cultivated throughout the programme, including critical thinking, creative problem-solving and leadership. These essential competencies are equipping our boys to tackle real world challenges with sustainable solutions at a community level. This recognition caps off a remarkable year for the Michaelhouse Future-Fit Programme, now in its second year at the school. The programme continues to empower boys to tackle real-life challenges with innovative and impactful solutions, as exemplified by the achievements of the Future Fit team. Special thanks and congratulations go to Mr Gerry Noel, the Future-Fit teaching faculty and the broader support staff for their collaborative efforts in supporting the boys throughout this journey and shaping their projects. The Future-Fit programme exemplifies how education can transcend traditional boundaries by equipping boys with the skills, knowledge and mindset to tackle real-world challenges. Through innovative projects and a focus on sustainability, the programme prepares young leaders to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.

FILTER FORCE Developed affordable water filters for clean drinking water (Anotida Chikarango, Oliver Watt-Pringle, Aseza-Oyola Nkombisa, Ryder Jordan). FOOD FOR ALL Designed aquaponic systems for sustainable food security (Leo Watson, Jed Reilly, Duncan Roberts, Griffon Erasmus). FUTURE-FOCUS Built adaptability skills for global workforce readiness (Mitchell Muirhead, Solethu Ngxola, Tobi Omotosho). POP PLANTS Scaled reforestation with biodegradable seed bombs and drones (Richard Knott, Noa Nel, Owen Reeve, Nathan Roberts). REVIVE THE ROADS Used AI to repair potholes and improve road safety (Daniel Uys, Neo Selibe, Sinaluthando Ncube). SOCIELINK Connected underprivileged students to clubs for personal growth (Luneziwe Mshengu, Martinho de Abreu, Michael Dottridge, George Lumley). TRASH2CASH Incentivized recycling through rewards (Kobé Ng, Eli Clarence, Anesu Mutongoreya, Griffin Goldby). TREETRUST Combined tree-planting with education for conservation (Tanaka Chinyoka, Sam Hoy, Fabiano Fierro, Matthew Lahaye). UHLELO Built a digital platform to empower communities in solving local challenges (Thomas Talbot-Frickel, Matthew Rees, Connor Maitland). UMSEBENZI-CONNECT Reduced unemployment using a job-matching platform (Sphelo Mfazwe, Valentino Zedde, Katleho Ramosunya). WET BOYZ Enhanced ocean conservation with sensor-equipped buoys (Nicholas Wulfsohn, Mikahael Geemooi, William van Niekerk, William Aylward).

Well done to the team and the boys for the insight and courage to embark on this learning journey.This really is exciting, inspiring and relevant education. A programme which sets Michaelhouse apart. - Paul Fleischack, via Facebook

66