The Steve Tshwete Banquet Hall in Middelburg buzzed with energy as more than 200 budding young scientists took centre stage at the Eskom Expo Nkangala Regional Science Fair, proudly showcasing their innovative research and scientific talent.
The regional science fair on 8 August 2025 featured 210 projects showcased by 285 young scientists in Grades 4–12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) NC(V) Level 2 to NC(V) Level 4 students. These learners progressed in their Expo journeys after taking part in various activities throughout the year, including workshops and District Expos.
This year’s most popular category was Engineering, with 103 entries, followed by strong participation in Social Sciences (31), Energy (28) and Biomedical and Medical Sciences (25).
Eskom Expo’s Mpumalanga Provincial Coordinator, Innocent Marume, said: “Thank you to the young scientists who came out in full force to showcase their research projects. We commend your effort, creativity, and hard work. A special thank you to our sponsors, especially Eskom, as well as the judges, parents, teachers, and dedicated committee members whose support and commitment made this event possible.”
During the awards ceremony, learners were recognised for excellence in research and innovation. A total of 42 Gold medals, 60 Silver medals, and 70 Bronze medals were awarded. The outstanding young scientists were honoured with prestigious Special Awards from Eskom. The award recipients, who received Bluetooth wireless speakers with wireless chargers sponsored by Eskom, are as follows:
| Award | Recipient | School | Grade | Project title |
|
Best Female |
Shalom Lasimu | Hoërskool General Hertzog | 11 | A self-healing and recyclable heat shield for space re-entry |
|
Best Innovation |
Snhlanhla Skosana | Phumelela Secondary | 9 | Solar electric nebulizer |
|
Best energy Project |
Hamza Loonat | Middelburg Hoërskool | 11 | From waves to watts |
| Best development project | Kamogelo Nonyana | Vezilwazi Secondary | 11 | Automated trash dustbin |
The Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (Acting), Ms Mologadi Motshele, said: “One of the most powerful aspects of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists is its deliberate focus on inclusion and transformation. By targeting previously disadvantaged individuals (PDIs) and placing a strong emphasis on girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMI), the Expo ensures that access to quality scientific education and innovation opportunities is extended to learners who have historically been excluded from such platforms. This not only builds equity within the education system but also creates a more diverse and representative pool of future scientists and engineers. Eskom is proud to support a programme that actively breaks down barriers and opens doors for every child, regardless of background or gender, to thrive in STEMI fields.”
Other prizes were awarded at the event, included:
| Award | Recipient | School | Grade | Project title |
| Best General Education Training (GET) Gr 6 – 7 | Mohammed Bhayat | Middelburg Muslim | 6 | Magnetism induction geyser |
| Best General Education Training (GET) Gr 8 – 9 | Annalize William | Gekombineerde Skool Ogies | 9 | Fingerprint forntress |
| Best Further Education Training (FET) Grade 10 – 12 | Dineo Mokwana | Silamba Secondary | 10 | Electricity from the force of nature |
The following schools were recognised for presenting the highest number of projects at the District Expos earlier this year:
| Award | School | District |
| Trophy – School with most projects at District Expo | Middelburg Muslim School | Middelburg Schools |
| Trophy – School with most projects at District Expo | Pine Ridge Combined | eMalahleni Schools |
| Trophy – School with most projects at District Expo | Tsiki Naledi | Hendrina Schools |
| Trophy – School with most projects at District Expo | Ramachaane Secondary | Moretele Schools |
| Trophy – School with most projects at District Expo | Chief Luthuli Primary | KwaMhlanga Schools |
| Trophy – School with most projects at District Expo | KwaNdebele Science School | Siyabuswa Schools |
Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty, said the expo’s commitment to promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMI) at the school level is powerfully demonstrated through this inspiring Regional Science Fair.
“It not only offers a unique platform for talented young scientists to showcase their groundbreaking innovations but also opens doors to exciting career pathways across a wide range of scientific fields, especially in scarce skills as outlined in the NDP2030. The exceptional projects presented, especially by learners from previously disadvantaged communities and young girls, stand as a beacon of hope for a brighter, more inclusive future in science and innovation that our country desperately needs. Congratulations to all the deserving medal winners! We wish you continued success in your scientific journey and look forward to your achievements at the upcoming Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF),” said Chetty.
Parents and teachers are encouraged to attend an upcoming 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 be inspired to take part in next year’s Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. For dates and venues, click here.
View photos of the event by clicking here.
CreativeBox
