CAPE TOWN – A Curro Durbanville learner is one of two Eskom Expo for Young Scientists winners that are set to represent South Africa at the prestigious Taiwan International Science Fair (TISF) with her research project later this month.
Yu-Yao Chen (16), a Grade 11 learner at Curro Durbanville High School, will present her research project, “Using Macroalgae-Infused Bioink to Improve Oxygen Delivery in 3D-Bioprinted Wound Scaffolds”.
This young scientist showed living seaweed can survive inside 3D-printed wound materials and produce oxygen when exposed to light. This is important because oxygen helps wounds heal faster, making this a promising and energy-efficient approach for future medical treatments. By combining biomedical technology and 3D printing, a fresh and exciting solution to a real-world medical problem was found.
The other participant is the 17-year-old Karabo Mpuru, a former learner at Northern Academy in Polokwane. Karabo will showcase her research project, “Finding the constant difference in an Arithmetic sequence”.
In this study it was proven that the two formulae developed can be used to find the common difference in any arithmetic sequence. These formulae work for even, odd and all types of sequences, making them reliable and practical. The findings are important because they help students save time in tests, improve problem-solving skills and support further learning in mathematics.
Major platform for young scientists
The event will be held at the National Taiwan Science Education Center in Taipei, featuring school-going researchers from around the world. It serves as a major platform for young scientists to share their work and encourage international collaboration.
The event is taking place from 31 January to 7 February. The learners will travel under the guidance of delegation leader Toinette Horn, director of the Eskom Expo Stellenbosch Regional Science Fair.
Mologadi Motshele, acting chief executive officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, said: “The participation of our South African learners at the prestigious Taiwan International Science Fair reflects the international standard, innovation and scientific curiosity demonstrated by our young scientists. Eskom is proud to support these learners as they push boundaries, explore new ideas and showcase the future of science and innovation. We remain committed to empowering the next generation of scientists and engineers through the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists.”
Registration to take part in the Eskom Expo is open. Learners in Grades 4 to 12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, NC(V) Level 2 to NC(V) Level 4 students, can register their research projects by visiting www.exposcience.co.za.
You must be logged in to post a comment.