Learners from seven schools in the Cederberg region are preparing to take part in a space-science experiment that will send rooibos seeds to the International Space Station in October.
The Western Cape Government reported that the seeds will be compared with control seeds after exposure to microgravity and space radiation. Learners will collect and analyse data about germination, growth, resilience and yield, connecting a locally important crop with practical science learning.
Sederberg Primary and Clanwilliam Secondary learners were named in the report, while Parklands College will run a parallel study. Learners across South Africa can also design the project's official mission patch during July and August. The project offers a useful example of how school science can connect local knowledge, research and future-focused STEM opportunities.