Albertus Willem van Niekerk, a learner at Paul Roos Gymnasium, was one of four South Africans to shine on the global stage during the World Innovative Science Project Olympiad (Wispo) in Indonesia last month.
The competition, hosted in Bali by the Indonesia Scientific Society from Wednesday 10 to Saturday 13 December 2025, brought together young scientists from around the world to showcase innovative research and encourage international collaboration.
Van Niekerk, a Grade 11 learner this year, achieved exceptional success by winning both a gold medal and a prestigious Grand Award for his research project, “In vitro growth inhibition of Penicillium digitatum by lavender oil”. His project explored the potential of lavender essential oil as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides in citrus production, offering promising solutions for sustainable postharvest disease management
“I am very thankful for the awards I have received at Wispo,” Van Niekerk said on his return to SA. “It is very gratifying to be recognised on an international stage for the hard work that I have put into my project over the last two years. The highlights of my trips were certainly the tour of Bali and the networking that took place on the day of judging.
“I was truly in awe of the great beauty of the island and the sight of modern buildings standing next to what looked like ancient ruins was unique and breathtaking. It was also a great privilege and very enjoyable to be able to connect and interact with like-minded people from all over the world. It was also great fun exchanging trinkets with the other participants.”
The other three budding scientists from SA were Milla Vorster from Curro Durbanville, Ismaail Hassen from Greenside High School (Johannesburg) and Dzunisa Chauke from Khanyisa Education Centre (Mopani).
ALSO READ: Budding scientist to exhibit in Bali“
Hassen was also awarded a gold medal for his project, “Design and Evaluation of Walk-Man: A Wearable Assistive Device for Enhanced Navigation in Individuals with Visual Impairment”, while Vorster and Chauke’s projects earned them silver medals.
The four learners, all gold medal winners at the Eskom Expo International Science Fair, travelled to Indonesia under the guidance of delegation leader Jane Wasonga, the director of the Eskom Expo Johannesburg Regional Science Fair.
Their success at Wispo highlights SA’s growing strength in science and innovation, and reflects the dedication, resilience and global outlook of its young researchers.
Said Parthy Chetty, executive director of the Eskom Expo: “What an achievement! Huge congratulations to our top four young scientists, who represented SA with pride at the Wispo in Bali, Indonesia. Your innovative projects and dedication have made our country proud. Keep pushing boundaries and reaching for the stars! We’re beaming with pride; well done to our Eskom Expo champions.”
You must be logged in to post a comment.