Sparking Curiosity in Polar Research: Ukhanyo Primary Visits UCT-MARiS

06 September 2024, Cape Town, South Africa — An unforgettable day unfolded at the University of Cape Town (UCT) as 30 enthusiastic Grade 6 and 7 learners from Ukhanyo Primary School's MASICORP English Hub embarked on a unique educational adventure. The outreach event, organized by SAPRI and the Marine and Antarctic Research centre for Innovation and Sustainability (MARiS), opened doors to the captivating world of polar science, specifically looking at Antarctic Sea Ice.

The learners, visiting from Masiphumelele, were warmly welcomed by the MARiS Sea Ice team and their collaborative partners SAPRI, MASICORP, and NPO Guardians of the Deep Ocean Legacy. The session kicked off with an inspiring message from Professor Marcello Vichi, Director of MARiS and Head of UCT's Oceanography Department, followed by an engaging overview of Antarctic research by Ms. Robyn Verrinder, MARiS Deputy Director and Senior Lecturer in the UCT Department of Electrical Engineering.

As students heard first-hand from the Early Career Researchers (ECR) of the MARiS Sea Ice team about their journeys into marine and polar science, the excitement grew. From stories of childhoods spent building with LEGO blocks and reading fascinating biology textbooks to early passions for the ocean, these personal narratives brought Antarctic research to life for the young audience.

From there, the students dove into the science, discovering the various tools and equipment researchers use to study and collect sea ice samples in Antarctica. They marveled at sea ice microorganisms under the microscope, observed marine robots and laser sensors that detect properties and dynamics of sea ice movement, and even examined the intricate structure of ice crystals under a cross-polarization light box.

A highlight of the day was the chance to don authentic polar gear and hold a piece of Antarctic sea ice core, an experience that brought them face-to-face with the frozen wonders of the Southern Ocean. The students’ curiosity was further fueled by hands-on activities that showcased the dynamic nature of sea ice.

The event ended with a quiz to test the learners’ newfound sea ice knowledge. Winners received prizes, including MARiS stickers, pancake ice mold keyrings, and copies of “Where the Weird Things Are” by Dr. Zoleka Filander, a renowned South African deep-sea scientist.

This collaborative outreach initiative, supported by SAPRI, brought a tangible sense of possibility for future oceanographers, engineers, and scientists in the Antarctic Year group. The event underscored the power of hands-on learning, community support, and passion for ocean education in inspiring the next generation.

"Thank you to everyone who made this session a huge success. We can't wait to see the incredible things that these learners will achieve!" A special shout out to our ECRs for sharing their stories and pouring out their passion into this outreach programme!

A special thank you to the following people for putting together this wonderful programme:

• Event Coordinated by MARiS Science Communication Officer: Miss Leila Nefdt
• MARiS Director - Prof Marcello Vichi (Oceanography Dept.)
• MARiS Deputy Director - Miss Robyn Verrinder (Electrical Engineering Dept.)
• MARiS Antarctic Sea Ice Early Career Researchers (from Masters, PhD and Postdoctoral Fellows were involved)
• In absence: Dr Tokoloho Rampai (one of the Polar Researcher Principal Investigators who unfortunately could not physically be there, but contributed to the success of the event).
• The support of the SAPRI team, Masicorp, the Guardians of the Deep NPO and Eshel’s Transport.