Eskom holds expo in Secunda
Hoërskool Secunda learners walk away with most medals.
Eskom recently hosted an expo for young scientists interested in energy, engineering and biomedics at the Sasol Recreation Club.
Media officer for Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, JeVanne Gibbs, said the energy category, along with engineering and biomedical sciences, emerged as the most sought-after areas of interest.
The young scientists seized the opportunity to showcase their scientific and innovative research projects at this year’s regional final of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists in the Gert Sibande region.
Altogether, 192 learners from Grades Four to 12 presented their research projects at the event. Eighty-four judges comprising teachers, specialists, learners and Eskom Expo supporters evaluated the 146 projects on display.
Innocent Marume, Eskom Expo’s provincial coordinator, congratulated the learners and said the research projects were outstanding.
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“We urge these learners to persist in their pursuit of scientific excellence and consider careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation (STEMI) while demonstrating the invaluable support and mentorship that Eskom Expo provides,” said Maume.
“Such guidance is pivotal in nurturing the future innovators and problem-solvers that our country needs.”
They awarded five exceptional young scientists at the Gert Sibande’s awards ceremony.
Hana Bhorat was the best scientist among the girls, Ashani Fredrick won the award for the best innovation, Ameera Ibrahim and Azynab Rajab won the award for the best energy project, Kagiso Phala won the award for the best development project and Ibrahim and Rajab respectively also won the awards for the best primary school project and the best high school project.
Eleven learners received gold medals, 20 received silver medals and 42 received bronze medals. Learners from Hoërskool Secunda secured the most gold medals and overall medals at the event.
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Parthy Chetty, the Eskom Expo executive director, said, “Eskom Expo contributes to the overarching strategy to foster skills development, science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation (STEMI) at the school level, finds its cornerstone in this event.
“This event not only provides a platform for gifted young scientists to exhibit their cutting-edge innovations but also exposes them to a realm of captivating career prospects in diverse scientific fields.
“The impressive projects showcased by learners, particularly those who have triumphed over previously disadvantaged backgrounds and girls, serve as a testament to the boundless potential of our future.
“Congratulations to all the medal winners, and we offer our sincerest wishes for even greater achievements at the much-anticipated Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF).”
Advancing learners from the region will compete against the country’s most exceptional young scientists at the ISF, scheduled for October 2023.
This prestigious event offers participants the chance to win prizes, bursaries, scholarships, and various other opportunities.
Learners will also stand a chance to be selected to present their research and innovations at international science fairs held in the United States of America, Asia, Europe, and across Africa.
