Young scientists from across the region will showcase their research and innovation at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists Regional Science Fair, which will be held at Hoërskool Jeugland on August 15.

The event forms part of 38 Regional Science Fairs taking place across South Africa, providing school learners with a competitive platform to present their research, ideas and problem-solving skills.

This year, about 6 300 projects will be showcased at the Regional Science Fairs after 13 882 projects were presented at 287 district expos nationwide.

ALSO READ: Former Glen Marais residents win silver medal at the Eskom Expo 

In total, about 18 481 learners participated in Expo activities, including workshops aimed at strengthening scientific research skills and district expos where learners received expert guidance on conducting impactful research.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage with fellow learners, educators and professionals from science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI) fields while developing their critical thinking, research, communication and presentation skills.

The acting chief executive officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, Mologadi Motshele, said the regional fairs celebrate the diversity of research taking place in schools and highlight the issues that matter most to young people in their communities.

“These projects reflect the real-world challenges learners are experiencing and the innovative solutions they are developing to address them.

ALSO READ: Gauteng learner crowned Top Junior Scientist at Eskom Expo

“Through the Eskom Development Foundation’s support of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, Eskom is proud to provide a platform that fosters critical thinking, creativity and innovation while empowering young people to contribute to South Africa’s future,” said Motshele.

Learners will compete for a range of awards, including Eskom-sponsored prizes for the Best Female Project, Best Innovation Project, Best Energy Project and Best Development Project.

Eskom Expo executive director Parthy Chetty said the regional science fairs provide a platform for learners to translate classroom learning into practical projects that address challenges in areas such as energy, the environment and technology while connecting them with educators, universities, industry and government.

The regional events also serve as qualifying rounds for the prestigious Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF), which will be held in Gauteng at the end of September. Approximately 6 300 projects, including group entries, are expected to compete nationally for places at the international event.

Professionals, including engineers, doctors, veterinarians, teachers, lecturers, researchers, scientists and IT specialists, are encouraged to apply as judges for the regional science fairs.

ALSO READ: 2025 Eskom Expo celebrates South Africa’s top young STEM innovators

Teachers can earn South African Council for Educators (SACE) Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, while scientists registered with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) can also earn CPD points. Other professionals may qualify for recognition through their respective professional bodies.

For information on Regional Science Fair dates and venues across South Africa, visit www.exposcience.co.za.