At the 45th Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) held at Emperors Palace, 16-year-old Lethabo Kgwete from Moleshatlou Secondary School in Limpopo’s Capricorn Region stood out among the brightest young scientists from South Africa and beyond.
Kgwete’s research project, titled “The Effect of Livestock Green Compost Tea,” earned him a Gold medal and the Best Development Learner Award, accompanied by a cash prize of R75,000, a life-changing achievement for the young innovator from Ga-Maila Mapitsane Village.
“The moment I heard my name being called on stage for Eskom’s Best Development Award, I could not believe it,” said Kgwete. “As a boy coming from the dusty roads of my village, I never imagined that I would one day win such an award. It felt so emotional because it came with a lot of money which will change my life and help my family.”
Eskom Expo for Young Scientists provides a platform for learners from South Africa and abroad to showcase innovative research projects in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation (STEMI). The 2025 ISF brought together learners from countries including Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, India, Ireland, Russia, and Mexico, making it a truly global celebration of youth innovation.
For Kgwete, being part of the ISF was more than just a competition, it was a moment of discovery, growth, and inspiration. “The journey was amazing from the first day I entered the venue until the day I left,” he said. “It felt so special to be there because I learnt a lot of things that will help me in the future when conducting research. Everything was wonderful, from the food and accommodation to the friendships and memories I made.”
Growing up in a humble household with his mother, Angelina Kgwete, as the family’s sole provider, Kgwete’s journey has been defined by perseverance and purpose. “Growing up has been challenging, with my mom trying by all means to support me during difficult times so that I could live a better life,” he said. “Winning this award is not just my achievement, it’s for her and everyone who believed in me.”
When he’s not conducting experiments, Kgwete enjoys reading, playing games, and helping his grandmother with gardening, a passion that eventually inspired his scientific curiosity about soil and crop health.
“I am passionate about STEMI because it gives me the power to find real solutions to the problems my community faces,” he explained. “Many local farmers struggle with poor soil and low yields. Through my compost tea project, I use science and innovation to improve soil health. I believe that with STEMI, I can create a better future for farming, one where my community is stronger, our soil is alive, and our crops thrive.”
Kgwete was first introduced to the Eskom Expo by classmates earlier this year, and with the help of mentors at his school, he developed his project and presented it at the District Expo and Regional Science Fair levels before qualifying for ISF. His story stands as an inspiration to learners from similar rural backgrounds.
“To other young scientists, come and join the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists to increase your passion for STEMI and showcase your innovative ideas,” he said. “This competition is a home for nurturing young people who are hungry to solve real-life problems. Participate, it could change your life like it did mine.”
Read more:
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