ASHUTOSH Vaitha’s rapid recovery from bacterial infection inspired him to produce a highly commended video on the benefits of penicillin for a national science competition.
The year four Canterbury College student entered the 2018 Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize shortly after suffering a sore throat, fever and aches and pains.
Mr Vaitha said he felt 90 per cent better the next morning after antibiotics kicked in and was fascinated to learn more about the medicine.
“Whoever invented antibiotics was a genius,” he said.
“I knew this should be my video topic as I just had to research to find out more.”
The Waterford student produced a video ‘Accidents Happen Bacteria vs Penicillin’, combining his passion for science, technology, engineering and technology (STEM) with his talent as a musician.
Mr Vaitha wrote a song: ‘One Swallow Away’ to the tune of Charlie Puth’s 'One Call Away’ and included his baby brother dressed as superman.
The judging panel last week revealed Mr Vaitha’s project was highly commended, ranking in the top 10 out of hundreds of entries nationwide.
Mr Vaitha said he would use his skills to enter more competitions in the future.
“I love STEM activities at school, it’s a lot of fun,” Mr Vaitha said.
“This was my first STEM competition, and I am looking forward to participating in more, as I think my future career will be in a science field.”
Canterbury College Junior School dean Bill Garland said the project was a remarkable achievement.
“We are very proud of Ashutosh putting together such a detailed video, including a song with five verses, and to result in a top 10 placing nationally is a great achievement,” he said.
Mr Vaitha is involved in a range of extra-curricular activities including the Junior School choir, school chess, soccer, cricket and rugby union.
He is also skilled at performing with the cello.
While antibiotics are effective in treating infection, overuse can lead to bacterial resistance, according to the World Health Organisation.
