Scientific excellence celebrated at Eskom Expo East London Regional Science Fair

Scientific excellence was celebrated at this year’s Eskom Expo East London Regional Science Fair, where a total of 125 budding young researchers and engineers demonstrated their skills and creativity in tackling real-world challenges.

The 84 research projects, including group projects, on display were evaluated by 57 judges, which included educators, specialists, academics, and dedicated Eskom Expo supporters at the event, held at Hudson Park High School on 8 August 2024.

This Regional Science Fair was the third of four fairs planned in the province. The Engineering category proved to be the most popular category, with 27 entries, followed by Energy (13), Agricultural Sciences (12), Social Sciences (10) and Environmental Sciences (seven).

Eskom Expo’s Eastern Cape Provincial Coordinator, Fredy Mashate said, “We are delighted to report a significant surge in participating schools in the region, testament to the outstanding support we have received from the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDOE). By recognising the Eskom Expo programme as a key driver of their provincial strategy for Maths, Science, and Technology (MST), the ECDOE has enabled us to increase our reach and impact and we are grateful for their partnership in empowering the next generation of innovators.”

The top young scientists were honoured with the prestigious Eskom Special Awards at the region’s awards ceremony. The award recipients, who received Bluetooth wireless speakers with wireless chargers sponsored by Eskom, included:

  • Best female: Hlela Folose and Iva Noyi, Grade 9 at Molteno High School
  • Best innovation: Great Umejesi, Grade 10 at Hudson Park High School
  • Best energy project: Yonakha Mangali and Lithemba Mankayi, Grade 9 at Lonwabo Junior Primary School
  • Best development project: Owam Mhlabeni and Imange Mongezi, Grade 9 at Bonkolo High School

Other special prizes were awarded at the event, including:

PRIZES RECIPIENTS
Rhodes University: bursary worth R65,000 Great Umejesi, Grade 10 at Hudson Park High School
RS South Africa: R5,000 for components Oliva Smallie, Grade 9 at Stirling High School
Wimpy: R200 voucher Liyabona Mfikili, Grade 10 at Port Rex Technical High School
Wimpy: R200 voucher Kwathitha Maroqo, Grade 7 at Sonwabile Public School
Steers: R100 voucher Lee Erasmus
Steers: R100 voucher Chuma Sosanti

The Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (Acting), Ms Mologadi Motshele, said, “The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists exemplifies Eskom’s dedication to develop the next generation of skilled science and engineering professionals, not only in South Africa, but across the entire continent. Developing expertise in these critical fields and closing the developmental gap between nations is a global challenge. The Eskom Expo is a flagship initiative addressing this challenge, providing learners who are in school with a unique platform to showcase their talents, innovative ideas, and scientific projects. We encourage all aspiring scientists and engineers to take part in the Eskom Expo, as it offers invaluable opportunities for growth, learning, and contributing to the advancement of our society.”

Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty, said: “STEM education in South Africa holds immense potential to address socio-economic challenges and drive sustainable development. To prepare the youth for the challenges of tomorrow, Eskom Expo provides the youth with skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. This prepares them to tackle local issues such as healthcare disparities, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure development. By promoting gender and racial diversity in STEM fields, the nation can foster inclusive growth and empower marginalized communities. Thanks to our title sponsor Eskom, who invests in STEM education through the Eskom Expo, to empower individuals and strengthen the nation’s capacity to harness scientific advancements for the benefit of all South Africans, ensuring a prosperous and equitable future.”

For dates and venues of upcoming regional science fairs, click here.

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