Young scientists showcase innovations at North Coast Regional Science Fair

Hundreds of learners showcased diverse research projects offering innovative solutions to real-world challenges facing South Africa at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists KwaZulu-Natal North Coast Regional Science Fair.

Held at the University of Zululand on 12 August, the event featured 192 projects by 241 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 Engineering with 82 entries, followed by strong participation in Social Sciences (28), Energy (18) and Computer Sciences and Software Development (17).

Eskom Expo’s KwaZulu-Natal North Coast Regional Science Fair Director, Amoret Conradie Beer, said the event was a vibrant celebration of innovation, curiosity, and collaboration.

“This year, our learners impressed with ground-breaking ideas, from sustainable microplastic filters to self-charging electric car mechanisms, proving that the future of science is bright in our region. We extend heartfelt gratitude to our key partners, including Eskom, the University of Zululand, FFS, the UniZulu Science Centre, the Department of Education KZN, and the King Cetshwayo District, whose invaluable support and collaboration have been instrumental in empowering our young scientists. Our sincere thanks also go to the dedicated teachers, parents, volunteers, and the 76 judges whose time and expertise made this event possible. We encourage more schools and learners to take part in the Eskom Expo because every great scientific journey begins with a single idea, and your idea could be the next big breakthrough,” said Conradie Beer.

 

During the awards ceremony, learners were recognised for excellence in research and innovation. A total of 38 Gold medals, 50 Silver medals, and 37 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
Best Female	Jané Swanepoel	Arboretum Primary School	6	Save our coral reefs with remote operated vehicles
Best Innovation	Jivesh Ramnath	Richardsbaai Hoërskool	12	JØ7 Vireo
Best energy Project	Caleb Vadivelu	Richardia Primary		Solar energy
Best development project	Lubanzi Mhlongo and Nkosenhle Mlaba	Mvuzane Primary School	7   6	Flood Bridge

The Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (Acting), Ms Mologadi Motshele, said: “One of the most powerful aspects of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists is its deliberate focus on inclusion and transformation. By targeting previously disadvantaged individuals (PDIs) and placing a strong emphasis on girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMI), the Expo ensures that access to quality scientific education and innovation opportunities is extended to learners who have historically been excluded from such platforms. This not only builds equity within the education system but also creates a more diverse and representative pool of future scientists and engineers. Eskom is proud to support a programme that actively breaks down barriers and opens doors for every child, regardless of background or gender, to thrive in STEMI fields.”

Other prizes were awarded for exceptional efforts and creativity in various categories:

Award	Recipient	School	Grade	Project title
Science CEO Award	Lwandile Shezi	Mnyakanya Secondary School	11	Nkandla Community Portal
Science CEO Award	Simphiwe Nxumalo	Qhakaza High School	10	Unveiling The Hidden Threat: Cardiovascular health protection through a revolutionary, sustainable microplastic filter
Science CEO Award	Abongwe Buthelezi	Khula High School	10	Self-charging electric car mechanism
Science CEO Award	Dharshan Govender	Arboretum Primary School	6	Pool Daddy
Science CEO Award	Siyamthanda Gumbi	Aquadene Secondary School	8	Improving learning outcomes through integrated ICT skills in teaching and learning
Promising Projects – Lunch Boxes – UniZulu University of Zululand	Sihlokuhle Shezi & Aluwande Bigela	Enquteni Primary School	5	Tough Threads: Which fabrics withstand potassium permanganate best?
Promising Projects – Lunch Boxes – UniZulu University of Zululand	Macelco Ntele & Sisenda Mntambula	Vondlo Primary School	6	Water purification system
Promising Projects – Lunch Boxes – UniZulu University of Zululand	Ezinhlé Makhanya	Malandela Primary School	5	Handheld generator
Promising Projects – Lunch Boxes – UniZulu University of Zululand	Amahle Ichumalo & Siyanthanda Magwemezulu	Somopho Primary School	6	Water filtration
Promising Projects – Lunch Boxes – UniZulu University of Zululand	Nokwanda Cele Snqobile Mathonsii	KwaMagwaza Primary School	7	Climate sciences
Promising Projects – Backpacks – UniZulu University of Zululand	Luyanda Tembe Amanda Msweli	Khula High School	12	Safe ride IA
Promising Projects – Backpacks – UniZulu University of Zululand	Thobile Mdletshe Anele Magwaza	Bhekikusasa High School	9	Automated protector car
Promising Projects – Backpacks – UniZulu University of Zululand	Phumzile Nhleko	Mjabuliseni High School	11	Geothermal power
Promising Projects – Pencil Cases – UniZulu University of Zululand	Ayabukwa Mlomo Thobekile Mabuyakhulu	Umdlamfe High School	9	Making a battery from locally available materials
Promising Projects – Pencil Cases – UniZulu University of Zululand	Sisanda Mkhwanazi Nompumelelo Mayeza	Mzingazi Primary School	6	Comparing natural and commercial fertiliser

Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty, said the expo’s commitment to promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMI) at the school level is powerfully demonstrated through this inspiring Regional Science Fair.

“It not only offers a unique platform for talented young scientists to showcase their groundbreaking innovations but also opens doors to exciting career pathways across a wide range of scientific fields, especially in scarce skills as outlined in the NDP2030. The exceptional projects presented, especially by learners from previously disadvantaged communities and young girls, stand as a beacon of hope for a brighter, more inclusive future in science and innovation that our country desperately needs. Congratulations to all the deserving medal winners! We wish you continued success in your scientific journey and look forward to your achievements at the upcoming Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF),” said Chetty.

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.