Youngsters showcase impressive science projects at expo
This year the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair (ISF) has helped put hundreds of learners on the path to success by introducing them to the exciting world of science.
After 31 exciting and competitive regional finals held across the country, the grand finale of the Eskom Expo kicked off at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre on Thursday, October 9.
The three-day Eskom Expo is South Africa’s largest school-level science fair, and this year 658 projects was on display in 25 different categories that range from microbiology right through to renewable energy.
The expo was officially opened by deputy minister of Basic Education, Enver Surty, and Dr Steve Lennon, Eskom’s group executive of Sustainability and Eskom Expo champion.
They welcomed the participants and encouraged them to use the Eskom Expo ISF as an opportunity to expand their horizons.
“I pay homage to all of you. Well done (for making it through to the ISF), but remember this is just the beginning of your journey. I look forward to a better future powered by bright young scientists like you,” said Surty.
Now, in its thirty-fourth year, the science fair was set to be a resounding success with over 822 learners attending.
This year marked the third year that other countries have participated with learners and educators travelling from countries such as, Mexico, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland to attend this prestigious science fair.
The expo is endorsed by the Department of Public Enterprises, Department of Science and Technology, the Department of Basic Education and has received recognition from the Presidency.
The expo sees learners presenting their work to professionals from the private sector, academics, scientists, judges, educators, learners from other schools, parents, as well as other interested community members.
Not only do learners increase their awareness of the wonders of science, the expo also hopes to broaden their knowledge and scientific horizons and encourage them to pursue careers in the sciences by igniting a passion for innovation, science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
“At the Department of Basic Education we recognise that science, technology, engineering and mathematics are important gateway subjects, and we thank Eskom for promoting science.
“We all need to take responsibility for creating a better South Africa and scientists play an important role in doing this,” said Surty.
Eskom has been supporting the expo for over 14 years, and last year committed to another five-year sponsorship.
Eskom wants to show learners that science is fun and stimulating, and that pursuing a career in science will open up several opportunities for them.
“If we want to grow the economy, protect the environment and create an equitable society, we have to build it on a solid science and technology base. Science is fun and rewarding, and each one of us can use it to make a difference.
“All of you here, today, have the potential to change South Africa and by pursuing a career in the science or engineering fields, you can help to drive growth and development in the country,” explained Dr Lennon.
Over three days the learners prepared to wow the judges with their impressive projects with the hope of winning a bronze, silver or gold medal at the prizegiving.
Learners also vied for one of the sought-after special prizes that were awarded to learners who showed outstanding ability in their field.
– @IschkeBoksburg
