The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists will soon host a series of Regional Science Fairs in 35 regions across South Africa, where school learners will have the opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas, scientific research, and problem-solving skills on a competitive platform.
This year’s participants have been pre-selected after taking part in various Expo activities, including workshops designed to elevate scientific skills, as well as mandatory district expos where young scientists received expert guidance and insights into conducting impactful research investigations.
This year’s participants have been selected from school and district expos where more than 17 500 learners presented their research projects.
Participants at the regional science fairs will have the opportunity to engage with fellow learners, educators, and professionals from various Science, Technology, Engineeringk and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
These interactions are designed to build their critical thinking and research skills while enhancing their communication and presentation abilities.
In addition to showcasing their research, young scientists will stand a chance to win a range of prestigious awards, including prizes for the Best Female Project, Best Innovation Project, Best Energy Project, and Best Development Project.
With more than 6 000 projects set to be showcased across the country this year, young scientists will compete for the highly coveted opportunity to represent their regions and provinces at the prestigious Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) at the Emperors Palace Conference Centre in Kempton Park from 6 to 10 October.
The ISF participants will compete for a multitude of prizes which include bursaries, opportunities, and a chance to be selected to showcase their projects at international science fairs in America, Asia, Europe, and the rest of Africa.
Prospective judges are encouraged to apply to judge at an upcoming regional science fair to gain experience in evaluating research projects at the Eskom Expo ISF.
Professionals such as engineers, doctors, veterinarians, teachers, lecturers, researchers, scientists, and information technology (IT) professionals are being sought.
Teachers can earn South African Council for Educators (SACE) Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points. In their own right, scientists registered with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) can also earn CPD points.
Other professionals can obtain credit through their respective professional bodies.
Those interested in applying or who wish to know more, can visit exposcience.co.za for more information.
The Welkom regional expo will be held on 15 and 16 August at the New Hall of the Central University of Technology (CUT) campus in Welkom.
