Wednesday, 25 March 2026: The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists will launch a series of District Expos across the Free State from May 2026, targeting the regions of Bethlehem, Bloemfontein, and Welkom to boost participation and enhance research quality ahead of Regional Science Fairs.
These crucial first-step competitions will take place across five key districts: Thabo Mofutsanyana, Mangaung Metro, Xhariep, Lejweleputswa, and Fezile Dabi, providing young scientists with their initial platform to showcase innovative research projects.
District Expos serve as the first compulsory level of participation in South Africa’s premier youth science competition.
They provide learners with opportunities to present their research projects and receive valuable feedback from trained District Selectors, including Eskom Expo coordinators, Regional Science Fair Directors, teachers, and mentors representing various science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation fields.
District Expos serve as the first compulsory level of participation in South Africa’s premier youth science competition.
These experienced professionals help identify potential errors in research methodology, experimental design, or data analysis, whilst spotting knowledge gaps and offering fresh perspectives to strengthen projects.
Most importantly, District Expos serve as the selection gateway for advancement to Regional Science Fairs, which begin nationwide in July. This makes them a crucial stepping stone in learners’ Expo journey and a key driver of excellence at higher competition levels, including national and international events.
Inspiring young innovation
Eskom Expo Executive Director Parthy Chetty emphasised the transformative power of participation: “Entering a science project in the District Expos is a powerful way for learners to showcase their creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving skills. It’s not just about experiments—it’s about exploring ideas that matter, sharing discoveries, and inspiring others.”
“Every project, big or small, contributes to building a future shaped by innovation. I encourage these young scientists to step forward, embrace the challenge, and let their science journey shine at the district expos,” Chetty added.
ALSO READ: Young scientists advance to Eskom Expo International Science Fair(Opens in a new browser tab)
How to participate
Learners eligible for participation should be actively working on research projects, have completed them, or be in final stages whilst seeking guidance to strengthen their work. Registration is available through the Eskom Expo
Free State District Expo Schedule
| Expo Region | District | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bethlehem | Thabo Mofutsanyana | 8 May | Harrismith High School |
| 20 May | The Sentinel Primary School | ||
| 20 May | Ladybrand Primary School | ||
| 21 May | Thabang Primary School | ||
| 21 May | Mehopung Primary School | ||
| 27 May | Tshepano Primary School | ||
| 28 May | Lindley High School | ||
| Bloemfontein | Xhariep | 13 May | Naledi Primary School |
| Xhariep | 14 May | PT Sanders | |
| Xhariep | 15 May | Diamandthoogte | |
| Mangaung Metro | 21 May | Setjhaba se Maketse | |
| Mangaung Metro | 21 May | Brandwag Primary School | |
| Mangaung Metro | 25 May | RT Mokgopa | |
| Mangaung Metro | 27 May | Curro Bloemfontein | |
| Mangaung Metro | 28 May | Eunice Primary School | |
| Mangaung Metro | 28 May | Matshiliso Institute | |
| Mangaung Metro | 30 & 31 May | Bon Hotel | |
| Welkom | Fezile Dabi | 7 May | North Primary School |
| Lejweleputswa | 11 May | Teto Secondary School | |
| Lejweleputswa | 12 May | Diepfontein Primary School | |
| Lejweleputswa | 15 May | St. Andrew’s Gr 1–3 | |
| Lejweleputswa | 16 May | St. Andrew’s | |
| Lejweleputswa | 18 May | Mamellang Thuto | |
| Lejweleputswa | 21 May | Boshoff Combined School | |
| Fezile Dabi | 21 May | Bekezela Primary School | |
| Fezile Dabi | 21 May | JJ Khubeka | |
| Fezile Dabi | 25 May | Kroonstad | |
| Lejweleputswa | 28 May | Bultfontein | |
| Fezile Dabi | 29 May | Sakhubotjha Secondary School |
The extensive schedule demonstrates the programme’s commitment to accessibility across rural and urban areas, ensuring maximum participation opportunities for Free State learners.
These District Expos represent the foundation of South Africa’s science education pipeline, nurturing the next generation of researchers, innovators, and problem-solvers who will shape the country’s technological future.
