Bright minds earn rewards at Eskom Expo

The 2024 Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) reached an exhilarating conclusion, with bright minds being awarded cash prizes for their meticulously researched and methodologically sound projects.

Held at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Kempton Park, the fair brought together the brightest young scientists from across South Africa and various countries around the world.

The 2024 top senior scientist, winning an R75 000 cash prize, was Ammarah Patel, a Grade 10 learner at Parktown High School for Girls in the Johannesburg region.

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Her project, titled ‘The Optimisation of the Physical Properties of Bioplastics’ was in the environmental studies category.

Patel’s meticulously researched study focused on optimising bioplastics using citric acid as a cross-linker, to remain strong at room- and freezer temperatures.

She tested bioplastic made from orange and sweet potato bioplastic by adding citric acid and found it weakened the bioplastic.

Patel also found that colder conditions decreased the physical properties of all samples she tested.

Naveera Chana, a Grade Eight learner from Cooper College in the Johannesburg Region, was the 2024 top junior scientist, winning a R50 000 cash prize.

Chana’s project, titled ‘Design of a Low-Cost System for Photosynthesis Measurements’, was in the plant sciences category.

The in-depth analysis focused on finding a more cost-efficient and effective method to measure the CO2 assimilation of different plants outdoors.

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Chana tested her prototype and compared the results with a commercial system.

She found the results were similar.

Her prototype can measure CO2 assimilation, temperature, and humidity and has a mechanism for the net photosynthesis to be calculated.

Her prototype met the required design criteria and can easily be converted to a closed system, if necessary.

“Eskom is proud of the young scientists who have participated in the Eskom Expo, gaining valuable knowledge, skills, and insights as they explore the dynamic fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation (STEMI).

“We encourage other like-minded school learners to take an interest in this initiative and consider pursuing careers in the STEMI fields. By doing so, they can become the architects of a brighter and more prosperous South Africa for future generations,” said Eskom Development Foundation acting CEO, Mologadi Motshele.

Participants received 73 gold, 74 silver and 103 bronze medals at the ISF. Deserving learners receive the coveted opportunity to represent South Africa at prominent international science fairs in Taiwan, Tunisia, China, Indonesia, the USA, and Türkiye with the help of various long-standing sponsors of the Eskom Expo.

These recipients will be announced in the coming months.

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“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners at the ISF for their outstanding achievements, especially the top junior and top senior scientist award recipients for this year,” said Eskom Expo executive director, Parthy Chetty.

“Their dedication, creativity, and passion for innovation in the STEMI fields have set a remarkable standard for aspiring scientists and engineers in South Africa and beyond.

“Their accomplishments not only highlight the importance of STEMI education but also inspire the next generation to push the boundaries of discovery and innovation.

“We are confident their future endeavours will shape a brighter, more innovative tomorrow as they make their mark in our country,” said Chetty.