A passion for environmental education and a desire to create opportunities for young people have helped transform a small science initiative into a growing platform for innovation, discovery, and career development.

Hosted by Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) at the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens Environmental Education Centre, the Earth and Beyond Science Fair recently brought together learners from schools across Johannesburg in competition to showcase their scientific thinking and problem-solving skills. Environmental sustainability emerged as a dominant theme among the top projects. First place went to a team from Riverlea High School, while Roosevelt High School learner Oluwatomish Akerele secured second place and R7 000. Third place, and R5 000, went to Felicia Karume for her engineering project, which focused on converting solid waste into electric power.

Read more: Moth members gather for Founders Day in Fairland

The competition was founded by JCPZ environmental education and sustainability specialist Modehi Maunyane, who first became inspired after meeting organisers of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. “I wanted to make sure that learners from the schools we work with had the opportunity to participate in science competitions and receive the support they needed.”

What began as the Enviro Science Fair in 2023, focused primarily on environmental challenges affecting communities. Learners were encouraged to identify real-world problems and develop innovative solutions that could improve the environment. The initiative quickly proved successful, with several participants advancing to district, national, and even international science competitions.

Also read: One giant (supersonic) leap for science

As the programme grew, so did its scope. A partnership with the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) and BRICS Astronomy introduced space sciences to the competition, leading to its rebranding as the Earth and Beyond Science Fair. “Environmental science focuses on challenges facing our planet, while our partners bring expertise in space sciences. Together, we can expose learners to a much wider range of opportunities.”

This year’s fair also featured participants from Thaba-Jabula Secondary School, Vroentoe High School, Westbury High School, and RW Fick Senior Secondary School.

The programme places a strong emphasis on supporting learners from less-resourced communities. Throughout the year, JCPZ specialists and mentors visit schools, host workshops, and teach learners how to conduct scientific research and develop projects. “The challenges are often resources and support structures, but we work hard to ensure that learners have access to mentorship and guidance.”

Beyond the competition itself, the initiative introduces learners to scientists, researchers, botanists, horticulturists, and environmental specialists, helping them explore future career possibilities. Maunyane hopes even more schools will participate in future editions of the fair. “It broadens learners’ horizons and builds confidence. Science fairs expose young people to careers they may never have considered before, and shows them that they, too, can become scientists and innovators.”

As the Earth and Beyond Science Fair continues to grow, it is proving that, with the right support, encouragement, and opportunities, young minds can develop solutions, not only for challenges on Earth, but perhaps one day for those beyond it as well.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates!