Young scientists shine at Eden Karoo regional science expo
The Eden Karoo regional finals of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists were held at Outeniqua High School on 29 and 30
July, where learners had the opportunity to display their science and innovation research projects.
A total of 100 learners from the region gathered to showcase their innovative science, engineering and social investigations. The 65 projects that were on exhibition were evaluated and scored by 24 judges, who are educators, specialists and scholars in the various competition categories and Eskom Expo enthusiasts.
This was one of 35 regional expos planned in all provinces across South Africa. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it was the first Eskom Expo science fair held physically since 2019.
This year, the biggest number of entries was seen in the engineering category (20). There were also a significant number of entries in environmental studies, physics and social sciences.
According to the director of the expo for the Eden Karoo region, Leana
Robinson, learners used the opportunity to showcase their innovations in science and technology. “It is important to provide such opportunities that help nurture and develop young scientists so they can be equipped to solve the challenges of tomorrow,” she said.
A total of 17 learners received bronze medals, while 18 received silver and eight received gold. Outeniqua High School learners received the biggest number of gold medals and medals, overall.
The Eskom Special Award winners
BEST FEMALE
Outeniqua HS - Janelle Greyling, Grade 9 ENG Civil and Industrial Engineering:
Passive Water Harvesting/Collecting
BEST ENERGY
Outeniqua High School - Jaco Jacobs
Grade 10 ENG Electrical, Electronics and Embedded Systems: Automated Inflation and Pressure Regulation for Recreational and Professional Cyclists
BEST DEVELOPMENT
Jonga Street SS - Sisipho Skhotha, Grade 10 SOC Psychology: Sport Psychology
BEST INNOVATION
Punt High School - Abigail Marais, Grade 9 ENG Civil and Industrial Engineering: Gutter Cleaners.
Eskom Development Foundation CEO Cecil Ramonotsi said it was impressive how learners, especially previously disadvantaged learners and girls, were able to develop such innovative projects while still at school, giving assurance that the future is in good hands.
Group executive of government and regulatory affairs at Eskom Nthato Minyuku congratulated all medal winners saying, “We trust they will make even greater strides at the Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF)”.
Learners in the region who advance to the ISF, which will be held in December, will compete against the best performing young scientists around the country. At this prestigious event, learners can win prizes and bursaries, along with scholarships and various other opportunities. They can also be selected to showcase their research or innovation at an international science fair in the United States of America, Asia, Europe and the rest of Africa.