Outstanding young scientists were recognised for their innovative research and scientific excellence at the Eskom Expo Makhanda (Grahamstown) Regional Science Fair, where learners from across the region showcased projects demonstrating creativity, critical thinking and practical solutions to real-world challenges facing South Africa and their local communities.
Hosted at Rhodes University’s Great Hall on 1 August 2026, the Regional Science Fair saw three outstanding young scientists awarded prestigious Rhodes University Faculty of Science bursaries, each valued at R75,000, covering the first year of any degree within the Faculty of Science at Rhodes University. The bursaries were presented to Thayfur Rashid from Calico Academy, Ovayo Gcwabe from Victoria Girls’ High School, and Daniel Czeredrecki-Schmidt from Graeme College in recognition of their exceptional research achievements.
The fair featured 90 research projects, including group projects, presented by 105 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.
This year’s projects reflected a wide range of scientific interests and community-focused solutions across the 13 Eskom Expo categories. The most popular category was Social Sciences, which attracted 17 entries, followed by Engineering (12).
Eskom Expo’s Eastern Cape Provincial Coordinator, Saskia Ess said: “This year’s Regional Science Fair was a resounding success, bringing together learners, educators, judges and supporters to celebrate scientific discovery and innovation. The projects on display reflected not only exceptional creativity and problem-solving skills, but also a deep passion for the Makhanda community, with many learners drawing inspiration from the real-life challenges and everyday experiences around them. The quality and relevance of the research demonstrated the learners’ commitment to developing practical solutions, while upholding the high standard of scientific inquiry and innovation encouraged by Eskom Expo.”
During the awards ceremony, young scientists were recognised for excellence in scientific research and innovation. A total of six Gold medals, 23 Silver medals and 34 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 Participant | Makatendeka Chakona | Victoria Primary School |
| Best Energy: Project | Thayfur Rashid | Calico Academy |
| Best Innovation: Project | Ifeoma Nnadozie and Darissa Mushid | Victoria Girls’ High School |
| Best Development: Project | Oyintando Mngqushwana and Sinayo Mdlangu | Matthew Goniwe High 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.”
Other prizes, sponsored by various organisations that support STEMI-education and youth development, were awarded in recognition of exceptional effort, creativity and innovation across a range of categories, including:
Rhodes University Science Faculty
- Best Chemistry Project: Rachel de la Mare (Victoria Girls’ High School)
- Best Geography/Environmental Studies Project: Makatendeka Chakona (Victoria Primary School)
- Physics Prize: Hlanaganani Nqweniso (PJ Olivier High School)
- Biochemistry Prize: Mercy Chidakwa (Victoria Girls’ High School)
- Biochemistry Merit Award: Jedd Youthed (Graeme College)
- Biochemistry Merit Award: Ntandoyenkosi Gampu (Ntaba Maria Primary School)
- Biochemistry Merit Award: Taylor Arries (Victoria Girls’ High School)
- Biochemistry Merit Awards: Limile Maliphathwe and Njenje Motjeone (Oatlands Preparatory School)
- Biochemistry Merit Award: Salizwa Makhalima (Graeme College)
Rhodes University Science Faculty packs were also presented to Gold and Silver medal recipients, while the best projects in each category received commemorative flash drives.
Department of Ichthyology and Fisheries Science (DIFS)
- Second-Best Environmental Studies Project: Dane de Villiers (Kingswood College)
South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB)
- Book Award: Owayo Gcwabe (Victoria Girls’ High School)
- Book Award: Mvelo Nqondela (Victoria Girls’ High School)
Christian Brothers’ College (CBC)
- Best Male Project: Thayfur Rashid (Calico Academy)
RUBIC
- RUBIC Award: Dag Saul (Kingswood College)
Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (Wessa) Awards
- Sable Trophy: Best Senior Environmental Studies Project (Grades 10–12): Daniel Czeredrecki-Schmidt (Graeme College)
- African Elephant Award: Best Junior Environmental Studies Project (Grades 4–9): Makatendeka Chakona (Victoria Primary School)
Royal Society of Chemistry South Africa (South)
- Chemical Sciences Award (Senior): Mercy Chidakwa (Victoria Girls’ High School)
- Chemical Sciences Award (Intermediate): Aphelele Sonanzi and Jordan Jordaan (Oatlands Preparatory School)
- Chemical Sciences Award (Junior): Timothy Shaw (Graeme College)
School Achievement Awards
- Best Performing School (based on the total number of awards): Victoria Girls’ High School
- School with the Highest Number of Participants at District Expo-Level: Victoria Girls’ High School
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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