Authored by: Captain SA | SA Rainbow News | 20 March 2026
Johannesburg – CityKidz Pre & Primary School, located in the inner city of Johannesburg Central Business District, has made history as the first school in South Africa to participate in the prestigious ARISS (Amateur Radio on the International Space Station) programme. This milestone gave learners a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to speak directly with an astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
#CityKidz #SpaceEducation #ProudlySouthAfrican
On Wednesday, 25 February 2026, 20 excited students from Grades 6 and 7 gathered in the school hall as a live radio link was established with NASA astronaut Chris Williams, currently orbiting Earth aboard the ISS. Although the conversation lasted just under ten minutes, its impact will last a lifetime.
#FutureLeaders #STEMInspiration #SpaceTalk
Through the global ARISS telebridge network, and with the support of the ground station AB1OC in Hollis, New Hampshire, operated by Fred Kemmer, the learners successfully connected. Additional support came from ARISS Moderator Seamus McCague (EI8BP) from Dublin, Ireland, and ARISS Mentor Peter Kofler (IN3GHZ) from Italy. Astronaut Williams used the call sign KJ5GEW, while the ISS operated under NA1SS.
#GlobalCollaboration #Innovation #TechnologyInAction
Excitement filled the room as the countdown began, and learners’ faces lit up when Williams’ voice came through the speakers. The session allowed students to ask questions about life in space, spacecraft operations, and astronaut training—sparking curiosity and inspiring future scientists and engineers.
#DreamBig #NextGeneration #ScienceMatters
Approximately 200 distinguished guests attended the event, including the school’s Director, Mr Renney Plit; Principal Sharon Reynolds; members of the Senior Management Team; Mr Thabo Nkopane from the Gauteng Department of Education; Germiston News Media; staff; parents; and learners.
#CommunityPride #EducationMatters #YouthDevelopment
Mr Plit expressed deep pride in the school’s achievement, saying:
“I stand here and I actually get tears in my eyes because when we started this school in 2008, I don’t think I ever could have imagined what CityKidz would become. This is your opportunity—keep performing, keep going well, and keep making all of your teachers, your principal, myself, and everybody proud. You have an opportunity in life—use it well.”
#Leadership #Inspiration #Motivation
Principal Sharon Reynolds described the day as “a giant leap for our school,” adding:
“Who knows? Maybe the next South African astronaut is sitting in one of our classrooms right now! This is a groundbreaking moment for our students. Engaging directly with an astronaut brings the wonders of space into our classrooms and encourages learners to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.”
#STEMCareers #EducationInnovation #SpaceDreams
Programme host Ms Tracy Ncube, a teacher at the school, also shared how CityKidz has grown significantly since its establishment in 2008. The school now includes a fully furnished preschool and ECD centre (CityBabez and CityTotz), a new AI Robotics Centre, and a high school (CityTeenz) currently under construction, expected to open in 2027. The school is also seeking donors for a state-of-the-art science laboratory and the development of a sports field on newly acquired land.
#Growth #EducationExcellence #FutureReady
CityKidz continues to prioritise quality education, offering a strong foundation from Grade 000 to Grade 7. The school actively participates in science Olympiads, including the Annual Matific Mathematics Olympiad, where it has achieved 3rd place for two consecutive years out of 200 schools—competing against some of the most prestigious private schools in South Africa. The school is aiming for first place this year.
#AcademicExcellence #MathOlympiad #TopPerformers
The ARISS programme is managed by an international consortium of amateur radio organisations and major space agencies, including NASA (USA), Roscosmos (Russia), the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and the European Space Agency (ESA). The programme is run by volunteers from national amateur radio organisations and AMSAT groups worldwide.
#SpacePrograms #GlobalScience #ARISS
Special recognition was given to the organisers behind the scenes. The event would not have been possible without the main organiser, Mr Brighton Mlotshwa, whose vision and dedication brought the project to life. He was supported by Mr Dewald Scholtz, Mr Nhlanhla Mghobozi, and Mr Zwane, whose teamwork ensured a seamless experience. Ms Tracy Ncube was also praised for her outstanding role as Master of Ceremonies.
#Teamwork #BehindTheScenes #Success
Students, teachers, and staff described the experience as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” and “truly out of this world.” The success of this initiative highlights CityKidz’s commitment to delivering exceptional educational experiences and nurturing a lifelong passion for learning.
#OnceInALifetime #EducationImpact #InspiringTheFuture
