Young scientists awarded at Eskom Expo North Coast Regional Science Fair

Young scientists in KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast have been rewarded after exhibiting their innovative skills and scientific brilliance at this year’s Eskom Expo for Young Scientists Regional Science Fair.

A total of 132 budding young from the region presented 95 research projects at the event, which took place at the University of Zululand (UniZulu) on 1 August 2024. The projects on display were evaluated by 52 judges, which included educators, specialists, and academics.

This year’s participants were pre-selected after taking part in various Expo activities, including workshops, research and innovations camps, and district expos. During these events, learners received valuable feedback from a team of experts to enhance their research leading up to the regional competitions.

Eskom Expo’s KwaZulu-Natal North Coast Regional Science Fair Director, Dr Betty Kibirige praised the young scientists for their dedication to the Eskom Expo research methodology process, while successfully balancing their academic curriculum. She emphasised that the journey for these budding scientists begins with the Expo, but their growth and development in STEMI fields will be secured through partnerships with higher education institutions, sponsors, the Department of Education, and other like-minded individuals in the various STEMI fields. “It’s these collaborations that will ensure the continued advancement of our youth in scientific research,” she said.

The region is grateful to Eskom for honouring the top young scientists 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: Leeah Pillay, Grade 6 at Arboretum Primary School
  • Best innovation: Siyathandwa Malinga, Grade 8 at Empangeni High School
  • Best energy project: Leeah Pillay, Grade 6 at Arboretum Primary School
  • Best development project: Ziphozonke Mashiyane, Grade 10 at Nkosithandile Secondary School

Kibirige added, “The Region would also like to acknowledge South32 for providing learners with the opportunity to win one of 26 laptops, 26 scientific calculators, and other valuable items. A special thank you goes to Ms. Zanele Madinane, the South32 Health, Safety, Environment, and Risk Manager at South32 Hillside Richards Bay, whose passion for science was evident as she encouraged the learners to keep their curiosity alive. The Eskom Expo North Coast Committee, which worked tirelessly throughout the year to ensure the event’s success, has the Region’s sincere appreciation.”

South32 also awarded schools with the highest number of entries with laptops. The award came with the condition that the school starts a science club with assistance from the Eskom Expo KZN North Coast Region and the UNIZULU Science Centre.  The three schools awarded were:

  • Secondary School with the highest number of entries:
    Birdswood Secondary School, with 16 projects. Primary Schools with the highest number of entries:
    Imizikayifani Primary and Somopho Primary School, each with six projects..

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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