Enthusiastic youths seized the opportunity to exhibit their remarkable scientific and innovative research projects at this year’s Bloemfontein regional final of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists.
A notable turnout of 167 learners in Gr. 4 to Gr. 12 gathered to present their projects at the fair held at the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, in Bloemfontein from 3 to 5 August.
The evaluation of the 134 research projects on display was carried out by 85 judges. They included educators, specialists, scholars and avid Eskom Expo supporters.
Johnny Haralambous, Eskom Expo’s Bloemfontein regional science fair director, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the young scientists who showcased their work.
“Such acknowledgement not only celebrates the accomplishments of these budding scientists, but also underscores the collaborative spirit that propels the advancement of science education,” he said.
This was one of 38 regional expos planned across all provinces in South Africa.
This year witnessed an impressive influx of entries in the engineering category, with 34 projects submitted.
Furthermore, notable participation was observed in the bio-medical and medical sciences category.
Five young scientists were awarded special Eskom awards at the region’s awards ceremony. These learners are:
- Georgia Ioannides of the Eunice Primary School, honoured for best innovation;
- Amra Marikkar of the Ladybrand Academy, acknowledged as best female;
- Kabelo Sekoere and Simthembile Hlehliso of the Senakangwedi Secondary School in Botshabelo, who entered the best energy project; and
- Nicolas Hugo of the Kagisho Combined School in Phahameng, for entering the best development project.
The Kagisho Combined School was awarded for being the quintile 3 school with the most potential.
A total of 45 learners received bronze medals, 22 awarded silver, and 17 received gold. Learners of Eunice Primary secured the highest number of gold medals, as well as the most medals overall at the event.
Advancing learners from the region will stand to compete against the country’s most exceptional young scientists at the Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF), scheduled for October. Participants can win prizes, bursaries, scholarships, and various other opportunities.
Moreover, learners stand a chance to present their research at international science fairs held in America, Asia, Europe, and across Africa.
