FAST Programme Testimonials

The Far Apart - Science Together (FAST) programme is the newest addition to the Habitable Planet Family. Launched in the winter of 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the FAST programme is a remote learning experience unlike any other. Students from all over South Africa (and all over the world) come together on Zoom to engage with the HPW curriculum in a way that best replicates the experience of a physical workshop (without leaving your home). FAST participants are engaged in a range of science exercises (including lectures and creative arts), gain transferable skills and even network at a formal gala dinner event.

But what have the participants themselves said?

Zenande Njilo

FAST Group 1 participant from Walter Sisulu University, South Africa

" The experience was great on my side considering that we were operating via ZOOM and not having to actually meet in person. It's been such an amazing journey, the team have made us into critical thinkers, made us believe in ourselves and at the same time made us want to learn more."

(Watch the video for more)

Sneha Yadav

FAST Group 4 Participant from the JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, India

"It was an amazing conference for me. I learned a lot, right from basic reasons to know something which I never knew about. Such a global experience, from sharing our views to going on debates, it was really really wonderful for me. Also I made such good connections with HPW FAST 4 group. Everyone was so good. Had a really good time. Hope to get involved with HPW again. "

Ontiretse Masangane

FAST Group 6 Participant from the Vaal University of Technology

"I've had a great experience with the HPW because I felt like I was on a time machine which took me way back to see how the Earth became habitable. I travelled to space right in my comfortable zone(room) via zoom to see how Milankovitch cycle takes place. This FAST program was really an eye opening after the HPW am now able to tell my family as to why to we have such a weather today - it was a journey which was fun."

Padmaprajithra P C

FAST Group 5 Participant from JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research

"It was a good experience for me. It helped me to improve confidence and I learned many new things. It was a free and open space. I got international friends. I am so thankful for the five amazing days. After attending the session I decided I will do a PhD after my master's, in science, mainly environmental. Now am confident enough to take that decision. If anyone gets the chance to do FAST then you should go for it - it will be a memorable five days in your life."

Yoliswa Mkize

FAST Group 1 Participant from the University of KwaZulu Natal

"It was quite exceptional considering the circumstances. Educational and Fun even from home in front of the camera."

(Watch the video for more)

Jijeo Samuel P

FAST Group 4 Participant from the JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, India

"Everything was perfect! It was fun! It was a great experience interacting with people across the continent. Learnt many things. And certain topics changed my point of view.

PS : enjoyed the gala dinner!!"

Lusana Baai

FAST Group 2 Participant from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology

"The workshop was a bangoo; a huge success. I am sure because it looked all planned out - was the best experience of my life. I was not thinking about going further with my studies .... But right now I’m thinking big: honours, masters."

Akani Chauke

FAST Group 1 Participant from Tshwane University of Technology

"The workshop was very helpful. I learned more about science and planet Earth. I got to make more friends and learn more about their background and their place of birth and why it's special".

Photos and screenshots by ACCESS and Vula Youth Development. Website last updated by cpalmer@access.ac.za, August 2020.

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