The 2024 Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair (ISF) celebrated the innovative spirit and creativity of young minds from across South Africa. Among the exceptional talents, two learners from the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Region in the North West province stood out: Lethabo Nche and Rorisang Pelo from Thibogang Primary School. These young innovators earned recognition at the prestigious event held at the Convention Centre at Emperors Palace, Kempton Park from 23 to 27 September 2024.

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Both Lethabo and Rorisang participated in the Siemens Energy Awards, where they were honoured with laptops for their outstanding projects. Their achievements reflect the growing importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in shaping the future of South Africa’s youth.

Lethabo and Rorisang were part of a select group of talented young scientists from the North West Province who competed at the national level. Their participation and recognition at the ISF not only highlight their personal dedication to scientific research but also place the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Region on the map as a hub for nurturing future innovators.

The Eskom Expo ISF is renowned for bringing together the brightest young minds to tackle real-world challenges through innovative science and technology projects. This year’s event saw participants competing for significant monetary prizes, bursaries, and high-tech gadgets. The prizes included laptops, tablet computers, and bursaries valued at up to R75,000, sponsored by companies such as Eskom Hld SOC Ltd, Siemens, and the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON), among others.

In addition to Lethabo and Rorisang, Tahir Ousman from Bojanala Region made headlines by winning the Derek Gray Memorial Award – a prestigious full bursary to study at the University of Pretoria. He will also enjoy an all-expenses-paid trip to attend the Nobel Week and Nobel Awards in Sweden, where he will have the rare opportunity to present his project to the King and Queen of Sweden.

Other notable North West winners include:

– Tahir Ousman (Bojanala Region), recipient of a National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences (NIThECS) Award.

– Surprise Ndlovu (Bojanala Region), who won a tablet as part of the Siemens PTY (LTD) Awards.

These achievements represent the exceptional talent present in the North West Province, further demonstrating the region’s commitment to fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and innovation.

The success of Lethabo, Rorisang, and other learners from the North West Province at the Eskom Expo ISF serves as an inspiration for future generations. Through platforms like the Eskom Expo, young learners are encouraged to think critically, solve problems creatively, and become ambassadors for science and technology in their communities.

As the winners return home to share their experiences, their achievements are a reminder of the potential that exists within South Africa’s youth. With continued support for STEM education and opportunities for young innovators, the future looks bright for these budding scientists.

-The VIP Team

-Eskom Expo ISF

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