Four decades of nurturing young scientific talent were celebrated at the Eskom Expo Welkom Regional Science Fair, marking 40 years since the region first created a platform for learners to question, investigate and turn their ideas into scientific research.

Hosted at the Central University of Technology (CUT), Welkom, on Saturday, 15 August, this year’s Regional Science Fair featured 129 projects, including group projects, presented by 157 learners from Gr. 4 to Gr. 12 and TVET students from NC(V) Levels 2 to 4.

The learners qualified for the regional fair after participating in Eskom Expo activities throughout the year, including workshops and compulsory District Expos, where they received guidance and feedback from judges, mentors and Stemi professionals.

The projects covered a broad range of scientific interests and community-

focused solutions across the expo’s 13 categories. Social Sciences proved the most popular category, with 33 entries, followed by Engineering with 30 and Plant Sciences with 19.

Eskom Expo Welkom Regional Science Fair Director Anina Nel said the 40-year milestone represented a legacy of passion, perseverance and progress.

“What you do in life is your history, but what you set in motion and keep in motion is your legacy,” Nel said.

She said the Welkom region’s Expo began in 1986 with three people who had a vision and had since developed into a platform that inspires curiosity, innovation and scientific excellence.

“Over the past 40 years, generations of young scientists have dared to ask questions, explore possibilities and communicate solutions to shape a brighter future through science,” she said.

The awards ceremony recognised learners for excellence in scientific research and innovation, with 21 Gold, 19 Silver and 36 Bronze medals awarded.

Special Awards sponsored by Eskom were also presented, with recipients receiving smart watches.

The Best Female award went to Kelebohile Tsoeunyane and Liana

Wanga Mohlakoana of Riebeeckstad High School, while Sara Makhsouss El Idrissi of Welkom Islamic School received the Best Innovation award.

The Best Development Project award was presented to Bokamoso Monyane of Mamellang Thuto Secondary School.

The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, Mologadi Motshele, said expanding access to quality STEM opportunities remained a priority.

“Through Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, we are empowering learners, particularly those from previously disadvantaged communities, to participate, excel and realise their full potential,” she said.

Motshele congratulated all participating learners and said the quality and diversity of projects demonstrated the exceptional talent among young South Africans.

Bonolo Ntsau of Brebner High School received the Matsheliso Science Institute (MSI)-Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Young Science Researcher Recognition Award in the Social Sciences category.

The award included educational and research resources. Ntsau was also selected as an MSI delegate to attend Science Forum South Africa (SFSA) in December 2026 and participate in an MSI Educational Science and Research Camp in Cape Town during the same month.

Several school and individual awards were also presented.

Welkom High School received the award for the Highest Number of Entries at the District Expo, while St Andrew’s School Welkom was named the Best Performing School at the Regional Science Fair.

Philip Bryssau of Naudeville Primary School received the Most Excellent Junior Project Award, while Helené Fourie of Trio High School received the Most Excellent Senior Project Award.

Eskom Expo Executive Director Parthy Chetty thanked title sponsor Eskom, other sponsors, the regional committee, judges and volunteers for their contribution to the event.

Chetty said the growing number of participating schools and female learners demonstrated the impact of the initiative, while judges had also noted an improvement in the quality of projects.

The finalists who advance to the International Science Fair were wished success as they continue their scientific journey and represent their schools and communities.

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