Mbabane – A Form Four Ezindwendweni High pupil has been engaged by the Municipal Council of Matsapha to design a recreational park prototype, following his earlier camera drone creation.
Thobani Gina, is on a quest to once again elevate his school, Ezindwendweni High School, which is located in Lavumisa.
Gina first rose to prominence when the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) showcased his invention of a camera drone made from recycled materials.
He was posted on the SNAT Facebook page, a move that quickly opened doors to new opportunities for him, including travelling.
“After SNAT made me famous with my invention, I was recognized by an organization called Only God Knows Charity, which paid for my travelling and accommodation expenses when I went to showcase my work at Cape Town,” Gina said.
He said he is still improving his drone creation.
“My drone needs some improvement. Like now, I don’t have a plan and I need some tools to construct it, as well as materials that are suitable for its design,” he said.
Gina has also created a wire toy car that can produce light, sound, and movement through electric power. His goal is to advance this design so that it can operate entirely on batteries.
Gina’s inventive spirit also took him to an international competition, where he presented his work and gained exposure to global drone technology.
“I was learning more information about drones like; types of drones, uses, advantages, disadvantages, and how to start a drone program,” he recalled.
Despite the challenges of working with limited resources in rural Lavumisa, Gina remains motivated.
“Honestly, I don’t let the environment demotivate me. Instead, I see it as an opportunity to think outside the box and find innovative solutions. The scarcity of resources actually pushes me to be more creative and resourceful,” he said.
He credits his teachers and mentors such as Mr. Zwane and Mr. Vilane for guiding him, while his greatest inspiration comes from his mother. “She’s been a constant source of guidance, support, and inspiration in my life,” he said.
Although he has not yet finalized his university plans, Gina is determined to continue inventing. “I’m still exploring my options for university after high school. While I’m interested in pursuing higher education, I’m currently facing some challenges that I’m working to overcome,” he explained
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