The Eskom Expo Bojanala Regional Science Fair brought together the region’s brightest young scientists, whose research projects highlighted originality, scientific inquiry and a commitment to using science and innovation to make a positive impact.
Held at the Tlhabane Community Hall in Tlhabane on 6 August 2026, the Regional Science Fair featured 108 projects presented by 130 learners in Grades 4 to 12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students NC(V) Level 2-4. Participants advanced to the Regional Science Fair after taking part in a range of Eskom Expo activities throughout the year, including workshops and compulsory District Expos, where they received valuable guidance and feedback from judges, mentors and STEMI professionals.
Eskom Expo’s North West Provincial Coordinator, Mmabatho Moloedi, said the regional event demonstrated the outstanding potential of young scientists in the region.
“Every project reflected perseverance and a genuine desire to use science and innovation to make a positive difference in our communities. It was inspiring to see learners embracing research from such an early age and developing the skills that will shape South Africa’s future. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every participant and my sincere appreciation to our title sponsor, Eskom, for its continued investment in developing young scientists from an early age. Thank you also to our educators, judges, volunteers, committee members, schools, parents, partners and host venue for your unwavering support in making this event a success,” said Moloedi.
During the awards ceremony, young scientists were recognised for excellence in scientific research and innovation. A total of 12 Gold medals, 22 Silver medals and 23 Bronze medals were awarded. The outstanding young scientists were honoured with prestigious Special Awards sponsored by Eskom. These award recipients, who received smart watches, were as follows:
| Award | Recipient | School |
| Best Female | Onalenna Molaolwa | Tsholofelo Technical High School |
| Best Energy | Refilwe Serapelo | Holy Family School |
| Best Development | Vuyisile Mlambo | Mogwase Technical Secondary School |
| Best Innovation | Hemika Bajah | Zinniaville Secondary School |
The Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (Acting), Ms Mologadi Motshele, said: “At Eskom, we recognise that sustained investment in STEM education is essential to building South Africa’s future skills pipeline. Through our support of Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, we are nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, researchers and innovators who will drive economic growth and sustainable development. We were encouraged by the outstanding research and innovation showcased at this year’s Regional Science Fairs reflect the exceptional talent and potential of our young people. We congratulate every learner who participated.”
Several special awards were presented during the awards ceremony in recognition of outstanding participation and achievement throughout the Eskom Expo programme. Marikana Primary School received the award for the School with the Highest Number of Projects at the District Expo, while Zinniaville Secondary School was recognised as the Best Performing School at the Regional Science Fair. Riyaan Nuur from Zinniaville Secondary School received the award for the Best Primary Project, while Onalenna Moloalwa from Tsholofelo Technical High School was recognised for the Best Secondary Project.
The Most Dedicated Male Teacher Award was presented to Bilaal Tayob from Zinniaville Secondary School, and the Most Dedicated Female Teacher Award was presented to Ntsako Ndubane from Trailblazers Primary School in recognition of their exceptional commitment to mentoring and developing young scientists.
Additionally, Top in Category trophies were awarded to learners who achieved the highest scores in their respective scientific disciplines:
- Agricultural Sciences: Waldo Fauche (Hoërskool Rustenburg)
- Biomedical and Medical Sciences: Marko Maree (Hoërskool Rustenburg)
- Mathematics: Ethan Marais (Holy Family Secondary School)
- Environmental Studies: Samkele Mdluli (Marikana Primary School)
- Energy: Boipelo Mathe (Hoërskool Grenswag)
- Engineering: Timothy van der Westhuizen (Lebone College)
- Physics, Astronomy and Space Sciences: Onalenna Molaowa (Tsholofelo Technical High School)
- Social Sciences: Zaheera Jooma (Fields College)
Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty, said: “Congratulations to all the young scientists who participated in the Eskom Expo Regional Science Fair. These regional events across the country serve as the official gateway for school‑level innovation, jointly supported by the Departments of Basic Education and Science, Technology, and Innovation. Learners turned curiosity into rigorous inquiry, transforming ideas into experiments that tackle real challenges and spark fresh solutions. Judges reported a marked improvement in project quality, with stronger methods and clearer communication. Heartfelt thanks to the regional committee and the many volunteers for their dedication, and to title sponsor Eskom and our regional partners for their generous support. Best wishes to the finalists advancing to the International Science Fair.”
Parents and teachers are encouraged to attend a Regional Science Fair in their area with their children and learners to experience firsthand the creativity and innovation of South Africa’s young scientists, and to inspire the next generation of researchers to participate in next year’s Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. For dates and venues, click here.
View photos of the event by clicking here.
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