The Free State this week plays host to the first of three regional science fairs, in a series of 35, as part of this year’s Eskom Expo for Young Scientists’ national competition. The province’s first event will take place at the New Horizon College in Harrismith on Saturday, 26 July.
The regional science fair series takes place annually across South Africa. It is a platform affording school learners the opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas, scientific research and problem-solving skills on a competitive platform.
The other two events will be at the campuses of the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State: in Bloemfontein on 2 August and in Welkom on 16 August.
A total of 557 budding scientists have been selected to compete at the three provincial events. They were chosen from more than17 500 learners who participated in various expo activities, including workshops designed to elevate scientific skills.
They attended mandatory expos in their districts, where they received guidance from experts and insights into conducting impactful research investigations.
The participants also presented their research projects here.
At the regional science fairs, the participants showcase their research in various categories.
The winners thereof stand a chance to win a range of prestigious awards, with titles such as: best female project, best innovation project, best energy project and best development project.
The regional winners qualify to take part in the Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) national final, this year scheduled to be held at the Emperors Palace Conference Centre in Kempton Park from 6 to 10 October, where they will compete against peers across the country.
Rewards for the best candidates identified here include bursaries to pursue studies at a South African university of their choice.
In addition to this they are granted a chance to be selected to showcase their projects at international science fairs in America, Asia, Europe and the rest of Africa.
More than 6 000 projects are set to be showcased across the country at this year.
Mologadi Motshele, acting chief executive officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, said the entity perceived the importance of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (Stemi) as a strategic enabler of South Africa’s growth, innovation capacity and long-term sustainability.
“By cultivating interest and excellence in Stemi from an early age, the Eskom Expo develops individual potential and contributes to the broader goals of economic growth, innovation and social equity,” said Motshele.
“These young scientists are the future problem-solvers who will address the challenges of energy, climate change, healthcare, food security and digital transformation.
“Our ongoing support of the Eskom Expo reflects our belief that investing in young minds today ensures a sustainable, skills-driven South Africa tomorrow.”
