Young scientists from across the West Coast showcased their creativity, innovation and problem-solving skills at the Eskom Expo West Coast Regional Science Fair at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Saldanha on Thursday 6 August.
The fair featured 104 research projects, presented by 146 learners from Grades 4 to 12, as well as TVET students from NC(V) Levels 2 to 4.
Social Sciences was the most popular category with 24 entries, followed by Engineering with 17 and Environmental Studies with 13.
Ursula Boys, director of the regional science fair, praised learners for their creativity, critical thinking and innovation, while thanking sponsors, judges, schools, teachers, volunteers and parents for their support.
At the awards ceremony, 10 Gold, 22 Silver and 47 Bronze medals were awarded.
Among the top achievers were Daniela Dixon of Hopefield High School, who received the Best Female Award; Andrew de Boer of Curro Langebaan, who won Best Energy Project; Carel van Niekerk of Piketberg High School, who received Best Innovation and the Top Senior Award; and Jesmine Linnert of Jurie Hayes Primary School, who won Best Development Project.
Riaz Africa of Vredenburg High School received the Top Junior Award.
Other category winners included Lia Bishop from Vredenburg High School, Mikayla Makau from Saldanha Primary School and Ovayo Somhlahlo, also from Vredenburg High School.
Mologadi Motshele, Acting CEO of the Eskom Development Foundation, said the initiative fosters scientific inquiry, innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving among South Africa’s youth, while Parthy Chetty, Executive Director of the Eskom Expo, praised learners.
