Eskom Expo for Young Scientists is South Africa’s science fair for schools, where learners are afforded an opportunity to identify a problem, analyse information, find solutions, and communicate the findings. The Expo brings learners, teachers, professional organisations, and government together for the same objective.

On 29 and 30 July 2022, the Central University of Technology, in collaboration with Eskom, hosted the annual Eskom Expo Regional Science Fair. About 97 learners in grades 6 to 11 from 10 schools in Bloemfontein and surrounding towns entered the Fair to exhibit their scientific investigations and innovative projects.  Schools that participated include Setjhaba se Maketse Combined School, Oranje Primêre Meisieskool, Eunice High School, Botlehadi,  Navalsig High School, Madikgetla Primary, Tsoseletso High School, President Brand Primary, Johnny Haralambous, and Madigetla Primary School. 

Learners participated in different categories as individuals and pairs. The categories ranged from Agricultural Sciences, Animal Sciences, Biomedical and Medical Sciences, Computer Sciences and Software Development, Earth Sciences, Energy, Engineering, Environmental Studies, Mathematics, Plant Sciences, Physics, Astronomy and Space Science and Social Sciences. By participating in the Expo, learners increase their awareness of science and engineering, add to their knowledge, and explore entrepreneurial possibilities, while broadening their scientific horizons. Prizes won include certificates, trophies, vouchers, and laptops.

 In his welcoming address, Prof. Samson Mashele said it is exciting and impressive to see the young generation participating in solving the enormous challenges the world is facing. “I am impressed to witness young minds’ work coming up with brilliant innovations that will shape our province, country, and the globe. As a country, we do not want to be consumers but entrepreneurs and innovators who will be job creators and problem solvers. With such brilliance, the future looks very exciting. I applaud each of you for your magnificent ingenuity and thinking outside the box. I am confident that upon completing your studies, you will be part of our CUT’s Vision 2030, leading through innovation as Innovation is at the centre of what we do.”

Caption

Best Energy project winners: Danicke Grobbelaar and Lee-Ann Britz (grade 7) from Oranje Primêre Meisieskool are flanked from left by: Mrs Jeeva Munsamy, Deputy Director: Community Engagement, Prof. Samson Mashele, acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement, and Ms Sister Mapiyeye, Manager: Schools Advancement Academy.

More brilliant young scientists

	Most Promising Secondary School Project winner: Lethabo Rahman, grade 8 learner from Navilsig High School, presented on ‘Nephrotoxicity’
	Best Innovation Project winners: from left: Micke De Andrade and Oprah Mukhebi grade 9 learners from Eunice High School, presented on ‘Plant growth in absorbing materials’
	Best Development winner: Tsiu Masiu, grade 6 Learner from Madigetla Primary School, presented on ‘Homework App’
	Most Promising Primary School Project winner: Danaé du Plessis, grade 6 learner from Oranje Primêre Meisieskool, presented on ‘Alternatiewe opsies’
	Best Female winners: from left: Chane Hoek and Rouvé Janse van Rensburg, grade 6 learners from Oranje Primêre Meisieskool, presented on ‘Hoe vuil is ons daaglikse items?’
	Best Energy project winners: from left: Lee-Ann Britz and Danicke Grobbelaar, grade 7 learners from Oranje Primêre Meisieskool