Gundeep (Guni) Singh (Year 12) has been recognised with a 2024 Governor’s Civics Award for Schools, celebrating his innovative approach to solving a key challenge in South Australia’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs).
Guni was presented with the prestigious award at Government House in February, where he received a medallion and certificate, personally signed by Her Excellency, the Honourable Frances Adamson AC. This recognition highlights his outstanding civic-minded innovation, developed as part of the Business Innovation Shark Tank competition at Nazareth.
His award-winning project, Charger X, is a digital platform designed to combat range anxiety, one of the biggest barriers to electric vehicle adoption. The app connects EV drivers with real-time charging station availability, allowing them to easily locate, book, and pay for charging services. At the same time, it supports business and property owners by providing a simple way to manage and monetise charging stations – turning them into valuable assets much like ride-sharing platforms have done for vehicles.
Guni’s research identified a critical gap in South Australia’s EV charging infrastructure, particularly in rural and regional areas. While EV registrations have surged by 200% between 2022 and 2023, the state’s charging network has struggled to keep up. Through interviews with EV owners and local businesses, Guni discovered a strong demand for more accessible charging solutions, inspiring the development of Charger X.
Guni’s achievement demonstrates the purpose of the Governor’s Civics Awards for Schools, which celebrate outstanding student achievements in active citizenship, civics, and democracy, recognising young South Australians who engage with real-world issues and propose innovative solutions. The awards encourage students to think critically about societal challenges and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Winning this award is a significant honour, as it highlights not only academic excellence but also leadership, creativity, and a commitment to positive change. The award carries immense prestige, reinforcing the value of youth-driven innovation in shaping South Australia’s future.
Guni’s Governor’s Civics Award is a testament to his dedication to innovation and civic-minded thinking. Looking ahead, Guni hopes to see further investment in EV infrastructure, advocate for government incentives, and raise awareness about the benefits of electric mobility in South Australia. Congratulations Guni – your passion for innovation and sustainability is an inspiration to our community.
