A wide range of innovative research projects were showcased at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists Welkom Regional Science Fair, including cutting-edge solutions which demonstrated the creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills of the region’s young scientists.
The event held at the Central University of Technology (CUT) in Welkom on 16 August featured 95 projects showcased by 116 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.
The most popular category at this year’s fair was Engineering, with 32 entries, followed by strong participation in Energy (17) and Social Sciences (16).
Eskom Expo Welkom Regional Science Fair Director, Anina Nel said this year’s fair was held across two sub-regions: North Primary in the Fezile Dabi Education District and Sasolburg for surrounding schools.
“We are grateful to our title sponsor, Eskom, and other local sponsors, Ilikwa Solar, for sponsoring prizes worth R55,000, including two laptops. We look forward to Fezile Dabi becoming a regional event in 2026. The Welkom leg of the competition featured participants from 23 schools across Lejweleputswa. Generous support from other sponsors, such as Evotel, ensured that learners were recognised and rewarded for their outstanding work. Our heartfelt thanks go to all role-players who contributed to the success of these events,” said Nel.
During the awards ceremony, learners were recognised for excellence in research and innovation. A total of 17 Gold medals, 27 Silver medals, and 36 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:
- Best Female Project: Fatima Noor, Grade 11, Welkom Gimnasium Secondary School, “Next-gen bandages 2.0: Sensing, healing and sustaining wounds”
- Best Innovation Project: Hanno van Jaarsveld, Grade 6, Naudeville Primary School, “The ideal chicken feeder”
- Best Energy Project: Calista Gerber, Grade 12, Welkom Gimnasium Secondary School, “Remotely controlling and monitoring the regeneration of electricity”
- Best Development Project: Mphe Moloto, Grade 7, St. Andrews, “Strength of vegan Scoby leather”
The Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (Acting), Ms Mologadi Motshele, said: “Through the Eskom Expo, learners are exposed to real-world scientific research, innovation challenges, and opportunities for personal growth. They learn how to design experiments, solve problems, communicate their findings, and think critically. These are skills that are essential in both academic and career contexts. Many of our past participants have gone on to study engineering, physics, computer science, and related disciplines, with some even representing South Africa in global science competitions. The Expo acts as an early catalyst for learners to imagine themselves as future scientists, engineers, and innovators. It creates the spark, and then helps nurture that spark into a career.”
Other prizes were awarded for exceptional efforts and creativity in various categories, including:
- Senior Best in Biomedical and medical sciences category: Mphe Moloto, Grade 7, St. Andrews
- Senior Best in Engineering category: Fatima Noor, Grade 11, Welkom Gimnasium Secondary
- Senior Best in Engineering category: Matshidiso Mokoena & Puleng Ramabodu, Grade 7, Harmonie Primary School
- Senior Best in Scientific combination category: Helené Fourie, Grade 11, Trio Secondary
- Senior Best in Social sciences category: Leila Erasmus, Grade 7, Welkom Volkskool
- Senior Best in Energy category: Calista Gerber, Grade 12, Welkom Gimnasium Secondary
- Junior Best in Engineering category: Hanno van Jaarsveld, Grade 6, Naudeville Primary
- Junior Best in Energy category: Tusani Mbongo, Grade 6, Riebeekstad Primary
- Junior Best in Scientific combination category: Aphiwe Ndlovu, Grade 6, St. Andrew’s
- Best in Environmental category: Tiro Malebo, Grade 6, Taaibos Primary School
- Best in Social Sciences category: Tlotlo Teme, Grade 7, North Primary School
- Best in Agriculture category: Ayanda Bhengu, Grade 7, North Primary School
- Best in Earth Sciences category: Rethabile Maloka, Grade 11, Barnard Molokoane
- Project of the day (Sasolburg): Andile Madubela, Grade 11, Barnard Molokoane Secondary School, Laptop sponsored by Ilikwa Solar
- Project of the day (Welkom): Hanno van Jaarsveld, Grade 6, Naudeville Primary School, laptop sponsored by Ilikwa Solar
Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty, said the regional science fair forms a vital part of South Africa’s broader strategy to invest in skills development and strengthen education in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMI) at the school level.
“It offers a dynamic platform for young, aspiring scientists to present their innovative ideas and research projects, gaining valuable experience and exposure to future careers in scientific and technological fields. Importantly, it also promotes inclusivity by encouraging participation from learners in previously disadvantaged communities and empowering young girls to pursue STEM-related studies. The creativity, passion, and problem-solving skills on display from these learners highlight the remarkable potential of our youth and signal a bright future for innovation in the country. Congratulations to all the medal winners, and best wishes as they prepare to compete at the upcoming prestigious 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.
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