Young scientists from across the West Coast showcased their creativity, innovation and problem-solving skills at the Eskom Expo West Coast Regional Science Fair held at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Saldanha on Thursday 6 August.

The fair featured 104 research projects, including group entries, presented by 146 learners from Grades 4 to 12, as well as TVET students from NC(V) Levels 2 to 4.

Learners earned their place at the regional fair after participating in Eskom Expo activities throughout the year, including workshops and district expos where they received guidance and feedback from judges, mentors and STEM professionals.

The projects covered a wide range of scientific fields, with Social Sciences proving the most popular category with 24 entries, followed by Engineering with 17 entries and Environmental Studies with 13.

Ursula Boys, Eskom Expo West Coast Regional Science Fair director said the event highlighted the exceptional talent and dedication of young researchers.

“Learners showcased outstanding research projects that demonstrated creativity, critical thinking and innovation,” she said.

Boys thanked sponsors, judges, schools, teachers, volunteers and parents for their support in helping develop the next generation of scientists.

“This year’s event was inspiring, with learners already looking forward to participating in 2027,” she said.

At the awards ceremony, learners were recognised for their achievements, with 10 Gold medals, 22 Silver medals and 47 Bronze medals awarded.

Among the top achievers were:

• Best Female Award: Daniela Dixon (Hopefield High School)
• Best Energy Project: Andrew de Boer (Curro Langebaan)
• Best Innovation Award: Carel van Niekerk (Piketberg High School)
• Best Development Project: Jesmine Linnert (Jurie Hayes Primary School)

Several West Coast learners also received special awards for excellence in specific scientific categories.

Daniela Dixon was recognised for the Best Junior Agricultural Sciences Project, while Marize Labuschagne (Vredendal High School) and Mieke Bezuidenhout (Vredenburg High School) received the Best Junior Biomedical and Medical Sciences Project award. Lia Bishop from Vredenburg High School won the Best Senior Biomedical and Medical Sciences Project award.

Other category winners included Saldanha Primary School learner Mikayla Makau, who received the Best Junior Social Sciences Project award, and Vredenburg High School learner Ovayo Somhlahlo, who was recognised for the Best Junior Environmental Studies Project.

Top overall performers included Carel van Niekerk, who received the Top Senior Award sponsored by Kropz, and Riaz Africa from Vredenburg High School, who received the Top Junior Award sponsored by Derrick.

Eskom Development Foundation acting chief executive officer Mologadi Motshele said the science fairs provide an important platform for learners to develop solutions to real-world challenges.

“Through its support of Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, the Eskom Development Foundation is fostering scientific inquiry, innovation, critical thinking and problem-solving among South Africa’s youth,” she said.

Eskom Expo executive director Parthy Chetty praised learners for their commitment and highlighted the growing participation of schools and female learners in science.

The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists continues to provide opportunities for young researchers to explore science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation, while preparing outstanding learners to compete at higher levels.