By Johnathan Paoli
In a showcase of young talent and scientific ingenuity, Otto du Plessis High School learner Christopher May has demonstrated the potential of student driven innovation in advancing South Africa’s technological landscape.
With the guidance and resources provided by Mandela University’s Centre for Broadband Communications (CBC), May’s Fractal Geometry Antenna Project not only earned him a silver medal but also positioned him as a key contributor to the country’s future in 5G technology.
CBC senior researcher and director David Waswa described May’s project as exemplifying the role of youth-led research in shaping the next generation of telecommunications.
“Fractal antennas are known for their unique properties, allowing for efficient designs that can operate over multiple frequency bands, making them increasingly relevant in 5G networks,” he said.
The innovative fractal antenna design offers efficient frequency utilisation, a critical component in expanding 5G networks.
His success in the project, bolstered by the silver medial and a R40,000 bursary from Wits University, underscores the significance of investing in young minds for technological progress.
Under the leadership of Waswa, the CBC has been instrumental in supporting young innovators.
Master’s student Sandi Bangani and PhD student Lillian Mutia played key roles in testing May’s antenna, providing critical mentorship and access to advanced technology.
Over three days, May utilised state of the art equipment to measure bandwidth, signal quality and radiation patterns, validating his theoretical findings.
Waswa praised the importance of such practical exposure to May’s future.
“This hands-on experience not only enhanced his understanding of antenna design but also provided him with practical skills that will serve him in his future studies and career,” he said.
He further highlighted how projects like these illustrated the real-world applications of fractal geometry in improving the efficiency of 5G technology.
The CBC’s commitment to nurturing young talent extends beyond this project.
Through its STEM outreach programme, YeboTutor, the centre provides online tutoring in mathematics and science for Grade 11 and 12 learners, ensuring broader access to high-quality education.
Additionally, CBC hosts outreach tours for disadvantaged schools, striving to bridge the gap in STEM education and create more opportunities for young innovators.
May’s achievements bring attention to the critical role that young researchers can play in advancing South Africa’s technological infrastructure.
As the country continues to develop its 5G capabilities, Waswa said that supporting budding scientists and engineers was imperative to staying competitive in the global digital economy.
5G technology promises enhanced connectivity, faster data speeds and more reliable networks, all of which are essential for economic growth, smart cities and digital transformation.
By fostering innovation at an early stage, institutions like CBC are ensuring that South Africa has the necessary talent pool to drive these advancements.
Waswa said projects like May’s fractal antenna design could pave the way for more efficient and cost-effective communication technologies, making 5G more accessible across the nation.
Mutia praised May’s dedication, noting that his curiosity and commitment to applying fractal geometry to antenna design were truly inspiring.
Bangani echoed this sentiment, emphasising that May’s success served as a beacon of possibility for other young learners, and that with the right support and resources, young people could make significant contributions to the ever-evolving field of technology
“This antenna project stands as a testament to the exciting future of communications technology, where unconventional approaches such as fractal geometry could redefine design efficiency and signal clarity,” he said.
As the nation continues its journey into the digital future, one thing remains clear: empowering young innovators today will shape the technological breakthroughs of tomorrow.
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