Young scientists from across the Nkangala region showcased their creativity and problem-solving skills at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists Regional Science Fair, demonstrating how research and innovation can be used to address real-world challenges facing South Africa and their local communities.
Hosted at Witbank High School in eMalahleni on 25 July, the Regional Science Fair featured 200 projects, including group projects, presented by 239 learners in Grades 4 to 12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students at NC(V) Level 2-4. Participants advanced to the Regional Science Fair after taking part in a range of Eskom Expo activities throughout the year, including workshops and compulsory District Expos, where they received valuable guidance and feedback from judges, mentors and STEMI professionals.
This year’s research projects reflected a wide range of scientific interests and community-focused solutions across the 13 Eskom Expo for Young Scientists’ categories. The most popular category was Engineering, which attracted 40 projects, followed by Biomedical and Medical Sciences (35), Social Sciences (27), Energy (26 projects), and Environmental Studies (14).
Eskom Expo’s Mpumalanga Provincial Coordinator, Innocent Marume said: “The Regional Science Fair was a celebration of the impressive talent, creativity and determination of our young scientists. I extend my sincere congratulations to every learner who participated and thank our teachers, parents, guardians, mentors, judges, committee members, volunteers and partners for their invaluable support in making this event a success. To those who did not participate this year, I encourage you to start your research journey early and join the 2027 Eskom Expo programme when registration opens in November. We look forward to welcoming even more schools and learners as we continue to inspire scientific inquiry and innovation across our province.”
During the awards ceremony, young scientists were recognised for excellence in scientific research, innovation and presentation. A total of 39 Gold medals, 42 Silver medals and 56 Bronze medals were awarded. The outstanding young scientists were honoured with prestigious Special Awards sponsored by Eskom. The award recipients, who received smart watches, were as follows:
| Award | Recipient | School | Grade | Project title |
| Best Female | Faatimah Osman | Middelburg Muslim School | 8 | Turning plastic waste into stronger roads |
| Best Innovation | Makhensa Baloyi | Mapala Secondary School | 11 | Built-in carjacking system |
| Best energy Project | Hamza Loonat | Hoërskool Middelburg | 12 | Lighting homes together: solar sharing |
| Best development project | Naledi Makaleng | Mapala Secondary School | 9 | Hydraulic house |
The Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (Acting), Ms Mologadi Motshele, said: “Investing in STEM education is an investment in South Africa’s future. Through the Eskom Development Foundation’s continued investment and support in the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, we are nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, researchers and innovators. This year’s Regional Science Fairs showcased the remarkable innovation, critical thinking and scientific excellence of our young people, whose research demonstrates the potential to transform bold ideas into practical solutions that address real-world challenges and contribute to a more sustainable future. We congratulate every learner who participated and commend their dedication and outstanding achievements.”
Other prizes, sponsored by various organisations that support STEM education and youth development, were awarded in recognition of exceptional effort, creativity and innovation across a range of categories, including:
| Award | Recipient | School | Grade | Project title |
| Best General Education Training (GET) Gr 6 – 7 | Gitika Dajee and Davesh Dajee | Middelburg Primary School | 7 | Biodegradable Plastic |
| Best General Education Training (GET) Gr 8 – 9 | Marli Jacobs | Hoëskool Middelburg | 9 | De-Icing methods: Efficiency and surface safety |
| Best Further Education Training (FET) Grade 10 – 12 | Shalomu Lasimu | Hoërskool Generaal Hertzog | 12 | A hybrid hydraulic rocket launcher |
Other special awards were also presented during the awards ceremony in recognition of outstanding participation and achievement throughout the Eskom Expo programme. A floating trophy was awarded to Middelburg Primary School for achieving the highest number of projects at the District Expo level. A second floating trophy was presented to Middelburg Muslim School as the best-performing school at the Regional Science Fair. These awards celebrate schools that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scientific research, innovation and learner participation. The Best Expo Teacher Award was presented to Mrs Ruth Reddy from Middelburg Muslim School for her dedication to mentoring and supporting young scientists.
Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty, said: “Congratulations to all the young scientists who showcased creativity, curiosity and rigorous inquiry at the Eskom Expo Regional Science Fair. Your projects inspire hope and demonstrate the power of science to solve challenges. Heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers whose time, expertise and dedication make this event possible and develop the next generation of innovators. We also extend deep gratitude to our title sponsor Eskom and other generous sponsors for their vital support of science education. Best wishes to the finalists advancing to the Eskom Expo International Science Fair, may your passion, perseverance and discoveries shine on the global stage. Well done and keep exploring.”
Parents and teachers are encouraged to attend a 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 inspire the next generation of researchers to participate in next year’s Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. Dates and venues: www.exposcience.co.za.
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In 2015, Ran Neu-Ner and Gil Oved sold their business, The Creative Counsel for an estimated R1 billion. The Creative Counsel is the largest advertising agency in South Africa employing more than a thousand permanent staff and tens of thousands of temporary staff every year. The Creative Counsel launched an incubator to support transformation within the industry. Start-ups in media, marketing, digital and mobile industries will receive support and mentorship from the agency\’s management team. In 2017, Ran Neu-Ner pledged R50 million to assist young entrepreneurs develop and grow their businesses. Gil Oved went on to become one of the \”dragons\’ on the South African edition of Dragons\’ Den, as well as one of the \”sharks\’ on M-Net\’s Shark Tank. In 2016, Both entrepreneurs won the EY Southern Africa World Entrepreneur Award for 2016 in the Exceptional category.