South Africa is celebrating a remarkable achievement as Rorisang Mohau Mohlobuli, a Grade 9 learner from Bloemfontein High School. Rorisang earned Second Place and a Silver medal in the Mathematics category at the prestigious 1923 International Mathematics, Science, and Engineering Fair (IMSEF). It was held in İzmir, Türkiye, from 1 to 6 June 2026.
At just 15 years old, Rorisang stood out among hundreds of international participants with his project, “Quantifying Goldbach: An Analysis of Prime Pairs”. His innovative research developed a mathematical model. It estimates the number of prime pairs linked to Goldbach’s Conjecture, refining existing approaches through analytical modeling and correction factors to improve predictive accuracy.
Reflecting on his success, Rorisang said: “It felt amazing. A lot of hard work went into my project. So having it recognised at an international competition is something I couldn’t be prouder of
Exploring the ancient city of Ephesus
Beyond the competition, he described his exploration of the ancient city of Ephesus. He participated in the Food Exchange and Cultural Night, which were unforgettable highlights. “I had the chance to try amazing food from different parts of the world. I also watched cultural dances from various countries. It was insightful to learn about different cultures through dance and food,” he shared.
His advice to aspiring scientists is both inspiring and empowering: “The best thing you can do as a hopeful young scientist is to be yourself at all times. Your unique perspective, interests and ideas are what allow you to think differently and make meaningful contributions. Don’t be afraid to stand out.”
South Africa’s delegation, led by Palesa Selepe, Eskom Expo Ekurhuleni Regional Science Fair Director, achieved outstanding results:
- Connor Kinnes (Grade 11, Elkanah House High School, Cape Town). He earned first Place, Gold medal in Engineering. He was also awarded Best Project in Engineering for “Project Pathfinder: Design and Optimisation of a Static Test Rocket Motor”.
- Joshua Danilatos (Grade 11, Graeme College, Makhanda). He earned First Place, Gold medal in Chemistry. “Catch-and-Release in a Warming Climate: Effects on Reflex Impairment and Stress in Rhabdosargus holub.”
Outstanding achievements at IMSEF show
Parthy Chetty, Executive Director of Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, praised the trio: “Rorisang, Connor and Joshua’s outstanding achievements at IMSEF show what sustained investment in STEM education and youth development can deliver. Their success highlights the exceptional talent in South African schools and underlines the value of national platforms like the Eskom Expo, where young people can pursue scientific inquiry and present their ideas on the global stage.”
The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists continues to nurture future innovators, with District Expos currently underway across all provinces. Learners in Grades 4–12 and TVET students (NC(V) Level 2–4) can register their projects at www.exposcience.co.za.
