Young scientists flock to Engineering and Social Sciences at local Eskom Expo Regional Science Fair

Engineering, Social Sciences, Biomedical and Medical Sciences, along with Earth Sciences proved to be the most popular categories amongst young scientists at this year’s Eskom Expo Regional Science Fair in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

A total of 262 budding young scientists from the region presented 226 research projects at the event, which took place at the Indoor Sports Centre at Nelson Mandela University’s Missionvale Campus in Gqeberha on 2 August 2024. The projects on display were evaluated by 76 judges, which included educators, specialists, academics, and dedicated Eskom Expo supporters.

Eskom Expo’s Eastern Cape Provincial Coordinator, Fredy Mashate said, “The Eskom Expo continues to break new ground, and we are thrilled to see our reach and impact expanding exponentially each year. A shining example of this is the remarkable achievement of a visually impaired learner from Khanyisa School for the Visually Impaired, who not only participated, but also clinched a prestigious Gold medal and a special award. This ground-breaking moment proudly demonstrates that Eskom Expo is an inclusive platform, accessible to all talented young minds, regardless of their abilities.”

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: Likhona Gxothiwe, Grade 10 at Cingani High School
  • Best innovation: Yusuf Laher, Grade 10 at Curro Westbrook High School
  • Best energy project: Layla Ebrahim, Grade 6 at Al-Azhar Institute and Saudah Saikh, Grade 6 at Al-Azhar Institute
  • Best development project: Brian Grootboom, Grade 9 at Paterson High School

Other special prizes awarded at the event included:

Prizes Recipients
2x Rhodes University bursaries valued at R65,000 each

Petronellah Kazembe from Masiphathisane High School

Christopher May from Otto Du Plessis High School

RS South Africa R5,000 voucher Clyde Snyders from Paterson High School
2x MTN laptop bags and mobile data

Alison Rennie from Theodor–Herzl Primary School

Athandile Tshotyana from Solomon Mahlangu High School

4x PAN Solutions laptop bags and goodies

Jacqueline Sifuba from Solomon Mahlangu High School

Kwakhe Lupuwane from Khwezi Lomso High School

Yamkela Msimanga from Khanyisa School for the Blind

Hezel Vuranda from Khanyisa School for the Blind

2x Van’s Office Supplies stationery packs

Rossouw Bornman from Grey Boys’ Primary School

Raul Snyman from Al-Azhar Institute

2x Mathematics With Nqayiya (MWN) study guides (Grade 11 and 12)

Lianae Petzer from Kabega Primary School

Abongile Stamper from Curro Westbrook High School

3x SAEON R500 book vouchers

Mienke Fourie from Kirkwood High School

Elam Daniels from V.M. Kwinana High School

Petronellah Kazembe from Masiphathisane High School

Special Recognition (Expo Award) Kayleigh Dickson from Dickson Home Schooling

The Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (Acting), Ms Mologadi Motshele, said, “We at the Eskom Development Foundation are ecstatic to see that learners are actively taking action to address the Sustainable Development Goals set out by the United Nations (UN), which was a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for us all. Regional science fairs not only provide a platform for young scientists to display their scientific ability, but also serve as a powerful source of inspiration for their peers. By witnessing the remarkable achievements of their fellow learners, more learners are motivated to pursue studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI) fields, which will be beneficial to South Africa.”

Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty, said: “STEM education empowers individuals to think critically, solve problems creatively, and adapt to a changing landscape of technology. It prepares our youth to become leaders in industries shaping the future, from artificial intelligence to renewable energy. Eskom Expo regional science fairs are crucial in advancing STEM education by showcasing grassroots innovations, scientific research and innovative solutions. These events inspire curiosity from the learners and spark an interest in STEM careers, which are in big demand in our country, as part of the National Development Plan 2030. As we embrace the opportunities of the digital age, investing in STEM education and supporting expos is not just a strategic choice but a moral imperative. It ensures that our nation remains at the forefront of innovation, competitiveness, and global leadership.”

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

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