Alberton learners achieve top honours at Ekurhuleni Regional Science Fair
Young innovators tackle real-world challenges with projects focusing on agricultural technology, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy integration.
Learners from Studler Academy and Hoërskool Alberton were among those who showcased their research and innovation at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists Ekurhuleni Regional Science Fair at Hoërskool Jeugland in Kempton Park on August 15.
The event featured 144 research projects presented by 186 participants, ranging from Grade Four to Grade 12 learners as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students.
Path to regional competition
The participants progressed to the regional stage after participating in Eskom Expo activities throughout the year, including workshops and compulsory District Expos, where they received guidance from judges, mentors, and STEM professionals.
Studler Academy claims gold and silver
Studler Academy celebrated outstanding results, with Grade Eight learners Kiaan Nana and Jiya Jivan receiving gold medals and the Best Innovation Project Award for their agricultural science project on the effect of argon cold plasma on seed germination and early plant growth.
Grade 11 learners Vicaylin Naidoo and Ethan Ipfatsiong earned silver medals for their underground air-cooling system project in the Energy category.
Hoërskool Alberton explores innovative solutions
Hoërskool Alberton also had learners recognised for their projects.
Grade Eight learner Asimbonge Mthalane presented an AI-powered hydraulics project aimed at improving safety and protection for underground miners by integrating AI with fluid-powered roof-support systems.
Mthalane said the experience was entirely exciting and it broadened their horizons, noting that despite transport and resource challenges, the event was an eye-opener.
Grade Eight learner Fanelesibonge Ndhlovu presented a project on renewable synergy, investigating how solar-powered hydraulic purifiers and wind turbines can be integrated to generate electricity and produce purified water efficiently.
As part of the project, Ndhlovu administered questionnaires at the school and in the community to gather data.
Ndhlovu said they had an exceptional experience at the Expo, adding that it was an opportunity to see other amazing projects, meet new people, receive advice, and better understand STEM.
Ndhlovu added that balancing schoolwork with the Expo was challenging, but said the experience was worth the effort, noting plans to participate again next year.
Celebrating the next generation of scientists
The fair showcased projects across 13 categories, with Engineering attracting the most entries at 52, followed by Energy with 17 and Social Sciences with 16.
A total of 24 gold, 41 silver, and 54 bronze medals were awarded, alongside Special Awards sponsored by Eskom.
Eskom Expo Ekurhuleni Regional Science Fair Director Palesa Selepe praised the participants, teachers, mentors, and host schools for their contributions to the event’s success.
