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Science Challenges

1

Junior Engineer Challenge

 

Overview

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The Junior Engineer Challenge (JEC) is an exciting hands-on engineering and science competition designed to ignite curiosity and innovation among young learners.
Students work in teams to design, build, and demonstrate mechanical models using affordable kits supplied by Innovative Science Solutions (ISS).

It’s not just about who finishes first — it’s about how well learners think, build, and explain. JEC turns classrooms into makerspaces where problem-solving, teamwork, and science come together.

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The Challenge Format

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Participants:

  • Junior phase: Grades 7–9

  • Senior phase: Grades 10–12

Structure:

  • Each team receives a STEM construction kit (e.g., Hydraulic Arm, Marble Roller Coaster, or Catapult).

  • Time limit: 90 minutes to assemble, test, and present their model.

  • Judging criteria:

    1. Accuracy & Functionality – does it work as intended?

    2. Creativity & Design – did the team adapt or improve the model?

    3. Presentation & Explanation – can they explain the science behind it?

    4. Teamwork – collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership.

 

Prizes & Recognition

  • Top 3 Teams per Region: medals, certificates, and ISS science kits for their school.

  • National Winners: trophy, feature on ISS website, and sponsor recognition.

  • Certificates for All Participants – celebrating effort, teamwork, and creativity.

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Why JEC Matters

For learners:

  • Builds confidence in problem-solving and critical thinking.

  • Encourages collaboration and communication.

  • Provides real-world application of science and technology concepts.

For teachers and schools:

  • Inspires project-based learning.

  • Showcases your school’s commitment to STEM innovation.

  • Connects your learners to a national network of young engineers.

 

How to Get Involved

Step 1: Register your school for the next regional event.
Step 2: Receive your ISS STEM kits and challenge guidelines.
Step 3: Train and test your teams in class.
Step 4: Compete at the regional event and stand a chance to qualify for nationals!

2

National High School Practical Science Challenge

Overview

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The National High School Practical Science Challenge (NHSPC) is a landmark initiative by Innovative Science Solutions (ISS) — a proudly South African program that celebrates the power of doing.
It brings together learners from across the country to test their practical understanding of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics through a dynamic, hands-on competition.

Unlike traditional exams, this challenge transforms theory into action. Learners experiment, measure, build, and explain — proving that science is not just a subject, but a skill for life.

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How the Challenge Works

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Participants:

  • Open to high school learners in Grades 10–12

  • Each school may enter teams of 3–5 learners

Competition Structure:

  1. Preliminary Round – School Level

    • Schools host their own internal practical sessions using ISS kits or approved resources.

    • Top-performing teams qualify for the regional round.

  2. Regional Round – University or Partner Venue

    • Hosted in partnership with universities and education departments.

    • Learners rotate through six experimental stations — two each for Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

    • Each station is timed (10 minutes) and assessed by subject specialists.

  3. National Finals

    • Regional champions compete for the national title.

    • Winners are recognized as South Africa’s Top Practical Science Team.

 

Awards & Recognition

  • 🥇 National Champions Trophy

  • 🥈 Regional Winners Medals & Certificates

  • 🧪 Best Experiment Design Award

  • 📘 Best Scientific Explanation Award

  • 🎓 Certificates for all participants and coaches

Winning schools receive ISS equipment vouchers, media recognition, and opportunities to partner in ISS outreach projects.

Why It Matters

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For Learners:

  • Builds confidence in hands-on science skills.

  • Encourages analytical thinking, communication, and curiosity.

  • Showcases their talent to universities and sponsors.

For Schools:

  • Promotes STEM excellence and teamwork.

  • Strengthens practical lab culture.

  • Elevates the school’s profile nationally.

For South Africa:

  • Cultivates the next generation of scientists, innovators, and educators.

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