Young innovators awarded at Eskom Expo West Coast regional science fair

Learners participating in the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists West Coast regional science fair have been awarded after impressing judges with their creativity, critical thinking, and innovative solutions to real-world challenges facing South Africa.

The event held at the White City Multipurpose Centre, Saldanha on 7 August 2025 featured 85 projects showcased by 129 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 Social Sciences, with 23 entries, followed by strong participation in Energy (17), Engineering (15) and Chemistry & Biochemistry (eight).

Eskom Expo’s West Coast Provincial Coordinator, Ursula Boys extended her heartfelt gratitude to sponsors, partners, educators, volunteers, judges, and learners for their vital contributions in making this year’s event a success, and inspiring the next generation of innovators.

“To the teachers, parents, volunteers and judges, your dedication, expertise, and enthusiasm have been instrumental in guiding and supporting our learners throughout their scientific journeys. To the learners themselves, I offer my warmest congratulations on their outstanding achievements and innovative projects. Your passion for science and your commitment to excellence have been truly inspiring, and we are proud to have you as part of our science fair community. I would like to extend an invitation to more schools and learners to get involved in the Eskom Expo West Coast. We believe that science education has the power to transform lives and shape the future of our country,” said Boys.

During the awards ceremony, learners were recognised for excellence in research and innovation. A total of 13 Gold medals, 25 Silver medals, and 47 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
Best Female	Zewah Engelbrecht and Ovayo Somhlahlo	Jurie Hayes Primary School	7
Best Development	Duran Farmer	Vredendal High School	9
Best Energy	Dawid Bierman	Swartland High School	9
Best Innovation	Tiaan Lamminga	Curro Langebaan	10

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 were awarded for exceptional efforts and creativity in various categories. Kropz awarded Bluetooth speakers and water bottles to the following participants:

Award	Recipients	School	Grade
Top Chemistry & Biochemistry	Zewah Engelbrecht and Ovayo Somhlahlo	Jurie Hayes Primary School	7
Top Earth Sciences	Riaz Africa	Saldanha Primary School	7
Top Engineering	Duran Farmer	Vredendal High School	9
Top Energy	Dawid Bierman	Swartland High School	9
Top Environmental Studies	Fiaando Williams and Gideon Ryk	St Andrews Primary School	7
Innovation for Automation	John-Roux Jantjies	Diazville High School	9
Top Plant Sciences	Wilrick Domingo and Aydon Linee	Porterville Primary School	8
Top Achievers	Jaun Duvenhage and Rueben Boonzaaier	Swartland High School	9

Umoya Energy awarded the following special awards:

Award	Recipients	School	Grade
Top Individual Project (laptop)	Riaz Africa	Saldanha Primary School	7
Top Group Project (tablet computers)	Zewah Engelbrecht and Ovayo Somhlahlo	Jurie Hayes Primary School	7
Top Agriculture (goody bags)	Gert Valentyn and Christan Ontong	Porterville Primary School	8
Top Animal Sciences (goody bag)	Andries Von Solms	Vredendal High School	8
Top Biomedical Science (goody bag)	Maritza Harmse	Hopefield High School	11
Top Innovation project (goody bags)	Mishe Maartins and Raziah Steenkamp	Liebenberg Primary School	6
Top Physical Sciences (goody bag)	Rhaneyah Manuel	Saldanha Primary School	6
Top Social Sciences (goody bags)	Jaun Duvenhage and Rueben Boonzaaier	Swartland High School	9

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 of the event by clicking here.