The NKZN Eskom Expo for Young Scientists was held on Friday (July 26) at the Indoor Sports Complex, drawing 302 learners and 44 schools to participate in this annual event.
The event covers the education districts of Amajuba, Zululand, Umzinyathi and Uthukela.
uThukela Mayor Siphiwe Mazibuko was the guest speaker and he spoke at length of the excellent work done by Expo to unearth budding scientists from all areas, including the deep rural heartland. He told all present at the prize-giving ceremony that he was passionate about working with children and that more needs to be done to uplift those who do not have access to the same resources as others.
As a non-profit organisation, Eskom Expo for Young Scientists (EEFYS) is a national initiative founded in 1980, which is endorsed by the Ministries of Science and Technology, Basic Education and Public Enterprise, as well as SACE. EEFYS presents South Africa’s largest science fair, with 35 regions throughout the country, for learners from Grade 4 to 12.
The programme complements the school curriculum, with a special focus on females and previously disadvantaged youth. EEFYS creates a platform for growth and serves as a catchment for future scientists, researchers and engineers as it prepares young leaders to thrive in our rapidly transforming world.
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There was an excellent turnout of learners, and 96 judges turned up at the venue to volunteer their services. 29 gold and 21 silver medals were presented to the learners, with others receiving certificates.
Special mention must be made of learner Thobeka Mkhonza from Tshanibezwe High School (preservation and distribution of energy using a cycling voltage); and Hoye Secondary School learners Nontobeko Hadebe and Nomvelo Ngwane, who demonstrated a solar-powered windmill from the rural areas in Bergville. They received gold medals without access to resources.
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