Learners at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists Makhanda (Grahamstown) Regional Competition wowed judges with their inventive thinking, sharp analytical skills, and forward-thinking solutions aimed at tackling real-world challenges in South Africa.
The regional science fair held at Rhodes University on 26 July 2025 featured 53 projects showcased by 74 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 categories at this year’s fair were Plant Sciences and Social Sciences, with 12 entries each, followed by strong participation in Animal Science (seven), Agricultural Science (five) and Engineering (four).
Eskom Expo Makhanda Regional Science Fair Director, Nadia Czeredrecki said the event showcased the high standard of excellence we have come to associate with this platform, but it also brought refreshing new developments, driven by the unique and dynamic innovation that only young minds can deliver, as there were more primary school learners in attendance than high school learners.
“We encourage all schools across the region, especially those that have not yet taken part, to explore the opportunity that the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists offers. It is a powerful platform for learners to question, explore and innovate, while discovering the joy of science and discovery,” said Czeredrecki.
During the awards ceremony, learners were recognised for excellence in research and innovation. A total of five Gold medals, 13 Silver medals, and 18 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 |
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Best Female |
Buhle Diniso | Port Alfred High School | 12 | Investigating the effects of different temperature conditions and exposure times on the degradation of vitamin C in fresh lemon juice and vitamin C serums containing lemon extract |
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Best Innovation |
Rodrigo Galantinho de Carvalho | Oatlands Preparatory | 7 |
Which type of bridge structure has the strongest load-bearing capacity?
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Best energy Project |
Zukhanye Ntlabati | Victoria Girls High | 10 | Trash to Gas: Harnessing methane gas from waste to power a gas stove |
| Best development project | Buhle Goniwe | JA Calata Secondary School | 11 |
Hydroponics (organic nutrient-rich solution)
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The Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (Acting), Ms Mologadi Motshele, said: “As the only initiative of its kind operating at scale across all provinces, the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists plays a critical role in developing the country’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMI) skills. Eskom’s active leadership role in advancing the Expo for the Young Scientists for almost three decades now is a reflection of our commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) which drives real impact and builds a foundation for a scientifically literate, innovation-driven society. This initiative equips young learners with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to pursue careers that will ultimately contribute to solving the country’s most pressing developmental challenges.”
Other prizes awarded at the event included:
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Top Awards (Highest scoring three projects)
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| Rhodes Bursary | Joshua Danilatos | Grade 10 | The science of catch and release angling in a warming climate | Graeme College | ||
| Rhodes Bursary | Buhle Hlonela Goniwe | Grade 11 | Hydroponics (organic nutrient rich solution) | J.A Calata SSS | ||
| Rhodes Bursary | Buhle Diniso | Grade 12 | Investigating the effects of different temperature conditions and exposure times on the degradation of vitamin C in fresh lemon juice and vitamin C serums containing lemon extract | Port Alfred High School | ||
| Chemistry Dept Prize – headphones, diary (High School) | Aone Morapedi | Grade 9 | How the pH Level Affects The Growth Of Fungi? | Kingswood College | ||
| Chemistry Dept Prize – lab coat, goggles, USB charger (Primary school) | Benjamin Shaw | Grade 6 | The boiling point of water as an indication of purity | Graeme College | ||
| DIFS – Branded water bottle and book (Primary School) | Viola Stoloff | Grade 10 | The effect of sound waves on mussels | Victoria Girls’ High School | ||
| Book | Avuzwa Xhalabile | Grade 8 | The thermal tolerance of Clarias Gariepinus | Victoria Girls’ High School | ||
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WESSA Awards
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| Sable Trophy (Senior Grade 10-12 Env 1st) | Mvelo Nqondela | Grade 10 | Comparison of conventional plant growing compared with aquaponics and hydroponics | Victoria Girls’ High School | ||
| Silver Certificate (Senior Grade 10-12 Env 2nd) | Buhle Hlonela Goniwe | Grade 11 | Hydroponics (organic nutrient rich solution) | J.A Calata SSS | ||
| African Elephant (Junior Grade 4-9 Env 1st) | Benjamin Shaw | Grade 6 | The boiling point of water as an indication of purity | Graeme College | ||
| Silver Certificate (Junior Grade 4-9 Env 2nd) | Aone Morapedi | Grade 9 | How the pH Level Affects The Growth of Fungi? | Kingswood College | ||
| Additional Awards | ||||||
| Grahamstown Region Top Performing Male Learner | Joshua Danilatos | Grade 10 | The science of catch and release angling in a warming climate | Graeme College | ||
| Certificate for Best Performing School (based on total number of awards) | Oatlands Primary School | |||||
| Certificate for The School with the Most Participants | Oatlands Primary School | |||||
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Certificate of Recognition for District Expo Involvement
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Mr William Makoni Ms Chephete Ms Nadia Czeredrecki |
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Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty, said the Regional Science Fair is an exciting opportunity and a unique platform for our young scientists to showcase their creativity, innovation, and passion for solving real-world problems while still at school.
“It’s more than just a science competition; it’s the only national platform to innovate, explore, and develop ideas that can shape a better future for our struggling communities and our country. Whether it’s in agricultural sciences, technology and innovation, the environment, or everyday challenges, their solutions can make a real difference. By participating, learners take the first step toward becoming problem-solvers and future leaders in Science and Innovation. The Eskom Expo encourages learners to collaborate with like-minded young scientists to build a brighter tomorrow. Their ideas matter, their efforts count, and their curiosity could be the key to the next big breakthrough. Let the innovation begin!” he said.
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 by clicking here.
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