Hundreds of young scientists had a unique opportunity to showcase their innovative talents and scientific brilliance at this year’s Eskom Expo for Young Scientists Southern KwaZulu-Natal Regional Science Fairs.
This year’s participants at the events held in the Ugu- and Harry Gwala Districts, 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.
Ugu District
A total of 123 participants from 21 schools presented 96 projects that were evaluated by 40 judges at the event held at Creston College in Port Shepstone on 13 August 2024.
The top young scientists, who were honoured with the prestigious Eskom Special Awards, received Bluetooth wireless speakers with wireless chargers sponsored by Eskom. These included:
- Best energy: Sbanisethu Zondi from Marburg Secondary School
- Best female: Kavisha Yshwarlall and Shaista Shaik from Port Shepstone Secondary School
- Best innovation: Asanda Zikalala from Zithokozise High School
- Best development: Iviwe Chiliza from St Patricks Primary School
Harry Gwala
A total of 123 participants from 17 schools presented 92 projects that were evaluated by 54 judges at the event held at Little Flower Combined School in Ixopo on 15 August 2024.
The Eskom Special Award winners, who received Bluetooth wireless speakers with wireless chargers sponsored by Eskom, included:
- Best energy: Lwandile Hadebe from Ixopo Primary School
- Best Female: Tanatswa Mhonda from Little Flower Combined School
- Best innovation: Zenande Nzimande from Little Flower Combined School
- Best development: Asiphe Makhanya from Sunrise Primary School
Eskom Expo Southern KwaZulu-Natal Regional Science Fair Director, Pragasen Samuel thanked the Eskom Development Foundation’s CEO Mologadi Motshele and all other guests for gracing the event with their presences, along with sponsors, judges and teachers.
“A special thank you to the pupils for their commitment in shaping our future. Our society is faced with many challenges which looks to science for answers. These young scientists had the responsibility of finding solutions to these challenges, as seen in many of their extraordinary projects at these Regional Science Fairs,” he said.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (Acting), Ms Mologadi Motshele, said, “The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists strives to inspire young minds to explore their passion in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI). By providing opportunities to develop their passion and enhance their knowledge, Eskom Expo plays a crucial role in shaping future leaders in these fields. We at Eskom congratulate all the young scientists and researchers who participated in this year’s science fairs. Your dedication and innovative spirit are truly commendable. We recognise that growing our economy requires more scientists, innovators, and engineers, and the Eskom Expo is instrumental in achieving this goal. Through your hard work and creativity, you are contributing to a brighter, more prosperous future for all.”
Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty said, “Eskom Expo for Young Scientists has made a transformative impact on previously disadvantaged individuals (PDI) in South Africa by breaking barriers and expanding access to STEM subjects. These events provide all learners with exposure to cutting-edge thinking around problem-solving and inspiring role models from diverse backgrounds. By showcasing the practical applications of STEM in solving real-world problems, the Eskom Expo inspires confidence and enthusiasm among learners, motivating them to pursue science education and careers in these fields. Eskom Expo also facilitates networking opportunities with industry professionals and mentors, opening doors to internships, scholarships, and further educational pathways. By promoting inclusivity and representation in STEM, Eskom Expo empowers learners to overcome historical inequalities and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s socio-economic development through innovation, research, and technological advancement.”
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