Pretoria learner brings back silver from Türkiye’s exposition

A Pretoria Grade 9 learner has earned extra recognition following her recent showcase at the Buca international music, science, engineering energy fair (IMSEF) in Türkiye.

The young scientists scored a second-place medal in the science fair held from November 20 to 25.

Inge Higgins of Die Hoërskool Menlopark in Pretoria clinched the medal in the biology category.

Her winnings have also left Eskom proud after the skilled learner ensured she left a positive mark in the Middle Eastern country.

Learners from 14 countries, including South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, Taiwan, Indonesia, Azerbaijan, Malaysia, Iran and Italy took part in the competition for science, engineering and music.

Higgins showcased her research, “The effect of biodegradable olive-pulp plant pots on the germination and early growth of seeds”.

Reflecting on her expo experience in Türkiye, Higgins said savouring the local cuisines, exploring historical sites such as Ephesus, excursions and engaging in meaningful interactions with fellow delegates from diverse corners of the globe was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“I am very appreciative of the opportunity provided by Eskom Holdings through the Expo for Young Scientists. And the support and encouragement provided by all who were involved in my project, from my school to my family, to our delegation leader, Mmabatho Moloedi, the Eskom expo North West coordinator.

“I am honoured, proud and happy that I could represent our country, South Africa and won an award at the Buca IMSEF. Overall, it has been amazing, and very exciting to experience a different country and cultures.”

A month earlier, Higgins had impressed judges with her pioneering research project when she became one of three learners from Die Hoërskool Menlopark to receive accolades at the Eskom Expo international science fair (ISF), where she grabbed first place.

She won the 2023 Top Junior Scientist award and a R50 000 cash prize in the environmental studies category.

Eskom development foundation CEO Mologadi Motshele congratulated Higgins on her achievements.

“As the main funder of the Eskom Expo for young scientists, we are extremely proud to witness young learners representing South Africa in this competition and making a big mark on the global scientific stage.

Eskom Expo serves as a vital platform to empower learners across the entire country not only to cultivate their skills but also enable them to positively contribute to our nation through scientific knowledge.”

Motshele said Eskom Holdings, through the foundation, continued to play a crucial role in nurturing research.

She said development and innovation in mathematics, science and technical skills were crucial to fostering a brighter future for South Africa.

Expo director Parthy Chetty said funding from Eskom had become instrumental in creating a unique platform for the learners to participate.

Chetty said the expo aimed to develop future scientists and engineers for the country from the school level.

“It is very rewarding to see young self-motivated girls like Inge competing and winning on the international stage.

South Africa has won awards each time our young scientists competed at Buca IMSEF, which bears testimony to the quality of the initiatives offered by the Eskom Expo to the learners in our country.”

Schools and learners can register to participate in the next expo from January 15 via www.exposcience.co.za as well as upload their research project.

Only grades 4 to 12 and NC2 to NC4 learners are eligible to register.

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