Eskom Expo International Science Fair this year celebrated South Africa’s leading young scientists with an impressive array of prizes, ranging from full bursaries and cash rewards to cutting-edge tech devices supporting future careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI).

Held at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Kempton Park from October 6 to 10, the fair brought together the brightest young scientists from across the globe, including South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Ireland, India and Russia.

Eskom awarded six full bursaries worth R5 million during the special awards ceremony.

These are contingent on recipients meeting the required criteria upon receiving their matric results.

Among the awardees was Sohil Bharat, a Grade 12 learner at Newcastle High School representing the Northern KwaZulu-Natal Region.

Bharat received a full bursary for his project ‘Vulcan Shield’ – a simple, affordable and reliable prototype that enhances underground mine safety.

The intelligent fire suppression system detects a fire within one minute, aligns itself, and extinguishes the blaze in approximately 21 seconds.

Bharat developed the innovation through meticulous planning, design, testing and refinement.

Other notable recipients were as follows:

Melokuhle and Simesihle Khuzwayo, Grade 12 learners at King Bhekuzulu High School representing the KwaZulu-Natal Far North Region, were awarded full bursaries for their project ‘Double Trouble Double Solution: Neutralising Acid & Plastics with Nature’s Help.’

Ozwikona Makuya from Mbilwi Secondary School (Vhembe Region), Jaco Deysel from Jim Fouché High School (Bloemfontein Region), and Nobuhle Sibeko from Lindley High School (Bethlehem Region) also each received full bursaries for their innovative projects, ‘MacSonic,’ ‘The Impact of a Look-up Table Design on AES Encryption Speed and RAM Demand,’ and ‘The Buhle 14-Day Dream (B14) Protector System’ respectively.

These bursaries cover tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks and a living allowance for studies in STEM fields at accredited South African universities.

Through this investment, Eskom reaffirmed its commitment to empowering future leaders and building a sustainable, knowledge-driven nation.

Mologadi Motshele,Eskom Development Foundation Acting Chief Executive Officer, said:

“Eskom Expo remains unmatched in its national reach and impact. It is the only initiative of its kind that brings together thousands of learners from across every province, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility. With Eskom’s sustained CSI support, the Expo has impacted the lives of more than 17,000 young people this year alone.

“What makes this especially significant is Eskom’s long-term commitment to strengthening South Africa’s development path for future scientists, engineers and innovators. By consistently investing in the Expo as a trusted national platform, Eskom is creating opportunities for learners to showcase their talents while driving the broader national agenda of skills development, innovation and economic growth through STEMI.”

Added Eskom Expo Executive Director Parthy Chetty:

“We warmly congratulate the exceptional winners of the ISF Special Awards Ceremony. Their achievements reflect the brilliance, dedication and promise of our nation’s future. These awards honour not only scientific excellence but also the spirit of collaboration that drives innovation.

“We extend our deepest thanks to our partners, whose unwavering support and shared vision have made this celebration possible. Together, we are investing in a generation of thinkers, problem-solvers and changemakers. Your commitment to empowering young minds strengthens our country’s global standing and inspires hope. This is what progress looks like — united, purposeful and proudly South African.”

The Special Awards evening also saw engineering and technology giants Babcock International and Siemens Energy award six full bursaries worth a combined R6.2 million.

The Babcock International bursary recipients were:

• Suprise Ndlovu – Boikagong Secondary School (Bojanala Region)
• Sohil Bharat – Newcastle High School (Northern KZN)
• Mokgadi Ralefeta – Dendron High School (Capricorn Region)
• Simesihle Khuzwayo – King Bhekuzulu High School (KZN Far North)

These bursaries include tuition, textbooks, accommodation, meal allowances and a laptop for study towards a Bachelor of Science in Engineering at any South African university.

Siemens Energy awarded two full higher education bursaries, valued at approximately R1.5 million, to Lethukuthula Khumalo from Nkodibe High School (KZN Far North Region) and Azola Sihlahla from Dulati Combined School (Southern KZN Region).

In addition, Olivia Barker, a Grade 11 learner from St Mary’s DSG Pretoria representing the Northern Gauteng Region, received the Dr Derek Gray Gold Medal.

Her award includes attendance at the Stockholm International Youth Science Seminar (SIYSS) during Nobel Week in December 2026, as well as a three-year study bursary in science or engineering at the University of Pretoria, subject to meeting the required criteria.

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