On 7 May 2025, UJFM and UJTV teamed up for a dynamic school invasion at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) Academy – Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation. The occasion was the school’s first G20 Showdown Spectacular, a vibrant educational initiative designed to immerse learners in globally relevant, solutions-driven learning.
As part of the event, each class represented a G20 country and was tasked with identifying and addressing a pressing issue faced by that nation. These challenges were aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), covering topics such as sustainability, urban congestion, and social inequality. Learners presented their well-researched, innovative solutions to a panel of judges that included representatives from the University of Johannesburg—exposing them to high-level academic engagement and real-world critique.
One of the judges, Ms Thato Mashishi from UJ’s CALTSTEAM research centre, described the summit as “a dynamic and engaging educational experience that placed student voice, creativity, and critical thinking at the heart of learning.” She praised the interdisciplinary approach and the use of Project-Based and Problem-Based Learning, which encouraged learners to apply knowledge to authentic global issues while building 21st-century skills such as collaboration, critical inquiry, and innovation.
Mr Gift Dlamini, a judge and part of UJ’s Coding and Robotics for Teachers programme, echoed this sentiment: “I was truly inspired by the innovation and sustainable thinking displayed. The learners showcased creativity, collaboration, and deep understanding of global sustainability goals—core competencies in STEM and critical to future academic and career success.”
UJFM also reported positively on the event:
“Students presented outstanding projects at the G20 Showdown Spectacular, offering innovative solutions to real-world challenges in support of the Sustainable Development Goals. A big well done to these young visionaries—your creativity and passion are paving the way for a better future!”
The G20 Showdown exemplified the power of immersive, interdisciplinary learning and highlighted UJ Academy’s commitment to preparing students to be informed and impactful global citizens.
