BONUS - RUSTENBURG - This year’s Eskom Expo International Science Fair celebrated South Africa’s leading young scientists with an impressive collection of prizes from full bursaries and cash rewards to tech devices that will support their future in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI).
The fair, held at the Convention Centre at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park from 6 to 10 October, brought together the brightest young scientists from across South Africa and various countries around the world, including Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Ireland, India and Russia.
Eskom awarded six full bursaries worth R5 million during the Special Awards ceremony, contingent on meeting the required criteria upon receiving their matric results, to support these bright minds. These bursaries cover full tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks and a living allowance for studies in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at accredited South African universities. Through this investment, Eskom reaffirms its commitment to empowering future leaders and building a sustainable, knowledge-driven nation.
Melokuhle Khuzwayo and Simesihle Khuzwayo, Grade 12 learners representing the KwaZulu-Natal Far North Region, were awarded full bursaries for their project, “Double Trouble Double Solution: Neutralising Acid & Plastics with Nature’s Help.”
Sohil Bharat, a Grade 12 learner at Newcastle High School representing the Northern KwaZulu-Natal Region, was awarded a full bursary for the project “Vulcan Shield” a simple, inexpensive, and reliable prototype that provides additional safety in underground mines.
Ozwikona Makuya, a Grade 12 learner at Mbilwi Secondary School representing the Vhembe Region, was awarded a full bursary for the research project “MacSonic”, that was inspired by the struggles learners face when using mobile phones for studying - such as distractions, scattered resources and burnout.
The Special Awards evening saw engineering and technology giants Babcock International and Siemens Energy award six full bursaries worth a combined R6.2 million (including tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, meal allowances, and a laptop) for winners to study towards a Bachelor of Science in Engineering at any South African university of their choice.
The Babcock International bursary recipients included: Suprise Ndlovu from Boikagong Secondary School (Bojanala Region), Sohil Bharat from Newcastle High School (Northern KZN), Mokgadi Ralefeta from Dendron High School (Capricorn Region) and Simesihle Khuzwayo from King Bhekuzulu High School (KZN Far North).
For more winners visit www.exposcience.co.za
