The Nkangala Region’s future innovators shone brightly as they proudly presented their cutting-edge scientific and innovative projects at this year’s Eskom Expo for Young Scientists regional final, leaving a trail of inspiration in their wake.
Eskom Expo’s Mpumalanga Provincial Coordinator said: “We were very excited to have such a high number of young scientists who came to showcase their research projects and innovations at the regional science fair. We had a notable turnout of 409 learners in grades 4 to 12 at the event held at the Steve Tshwete Banquet Hall in Middelburg on 29 July 2023. The majority of entries were in the Engineering category, with 134 projects submitted. Furthermore, notable participation was observed in the Energy and Biomedical Sciences categories”.
This regional expo was one of 38 regional expos planned across all provinces in South Africa. The evaluation of the 367 projects on display was carried out by 77 judges, comprising educators, specialists, scholars, and avid Eskom Expo supporters.
Four exceptional young scientists were awarded the prestigious Eskom Special Awards at the region’s awards ceremony. The learners, who received Bluetooth speakers, were:
- Best female: Madison Cooke – Middelburg Primary School
- Best innovation: Renae Mudau – Greenadale School
- Best energy project: Londiwe Shabangu – Alex Benjamin Secondary School
- Best development project: Samukelisiwe Mbamba – Mareleng Primary School
A special prize was awarded to Sele Secondary School in Kameelpoort for consistently participating in Eskom Expo every year since 2006.
Furthermore, a total of 72 learners received bronze medals, 59 were awarded silver, and 22 received the highly esteemed gold medals. Notably, learners from Middelburg Muslim School and Middelburg Primary School secured the highest number of gold medals, and overall medals at the event.
Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty, emphasised the need to nurture young scientists through the Eskom Expo. “The event forms a vital part of South Africa’s broader strategy to invest in skills development, science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation (STEMI) at the school level, while providing a platform for talented young scientists to present their innovations and gain exposure to exciting career opportunities in diverse scientific fields. The impressive projects showcased by learners, particularly those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and girls, highlight a promising future ahead. Congratulations to all the medal winners, and best wishes for even greater accomplishments at the upcoming Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF),” he said.
Advancing learners from the region will have the opportunity to compete against the country’s most exceptional young scientists at the ISF, scheduled for October 2023. This prestigious event offers participants the chance to win prizes, bursaries, scholarships, and various other opportunities. Moreover, learners stand a chance to be selected to present their research and innovations at international science fairs held in the United States of America, Asia, Europe, and across Africa.
For dates and venues of upcoming regional science fairs, click here.
CreativeBox
