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Three Menlopark learners wow judges at International Science Fair

Die Hoërskool Menlopark salutes three of its young scientists for instilling pride in the top-achieving school after their performance at this year’s expo.

October 9, 2023
Reitumetse Mahope 2 minutes read
Inge Higgins from Die Hoërskool Menlopark in Gauteng won the Top Junior Scientist award and a R50 000 cash prize at the 2023 Eskom Expo International Science Fair.

Three Grade 9 learners at Die Hoërskool Menlopark in the east of Pretoria have unlocked their winning spirit after grabbing accolades at the 2023 Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) last week.

The ISF took place at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg from October 3-6, which saw Inge Higgins coming first in the Junior Category, while Erik Senekal and Le Roux van Wyk were placed second in the “Energy and Power” category.

The expo encouraged learners to enter their research projects in one of its 35 regional competitions.

At this year’s event, learners were selected from the 35 expo regions in South Africa to compete against the best young scientists from countries around the world such as Taiwan, Tunisia, Indonesia, Bali, USA, Hong Kong, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Ireland, Turkey and India.

Watch here: https://fb.watch/nuGGtVvnxy/?mibextid=GDoUIH

Higgins won the 2023 Top Junior Scientist award and a R50 000 cash prize after her research was entered in the Environmental Studies Category. She investigated the effect biodegradable olive-pulp plant pots had on the germination and early growth of Afrikaner, Namaqualand Daisy and Sunflower seeds.

Her scientific investigative approach and novel research method impressed the judges as she showed that probiotics accelerated the germination of these seeds.

 

 

Bryanston High School learner Likitha Chundru from Johannesburg was named the 2023 Top Senior Scientist, winning a R75 000 cash prize.

Chundru exhibited groundbreaking research using an innovative method to increase the germination and growth of non-legume plants using Rhizobium spp. bacteria.

Her meticulous attention to detail and rigorous research methods impressed the judges, and her findings would help farmers produce major crops within shorter time frames, making a significant contribution to global food security.

 

Menlopark learners making heads turn at the Eskom International Science Fair at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg: Erik Senekal, Le Roux van Wyk and Inge Higgins. Photo: Facebook/DieMenloPark.

A total of 23 bursaries, 54 gold, 92 silver and 105 bronze medals, along with 62 Highly Commended certificates were awarded at the ISF.

Acting Eskom Development Foundation CEO Mologadi Motshele said: “At the Eskom Expo, young scientists are given the platform to apply their logical thinking, creativity, and innovation to address pressing problems within their communities.

“Eskom Development Foundation wholeheartedly provides support to these learners who are not only finding solutions but are emerging as inspirational figures among their peers.

“As they navigate the intricate landscape of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation, the expo strives to ignite a lasting passion for innovation and steer them toward promising careers in these fields.”

Eskom Expo executive director, Parthy Chetty said she hoped all finalists left the expo inspired and would spread stories of their exciting adventures back at school.

On its social media, Die Hoërskool Menlopark said: “The Menloparkers made heads turn at the Eskom International Science Fair. We know it takes determination and hard work.”

The school congratulated the three learners on their triumphs and for instilling pride in the top-achieving east school.

 

 

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October 9, 2023
Reitumetse Mahope 2 minutes read

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