BOPHELONG – Atlehang Ngali and Bohlale Mayisele from the Dr Molefi Oliphant School of Specialisation will fly the Vaal flag high at the upcoming Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair (ISF), taking place from September 29 to October 2.

The science fair allows learners to showcase projects from their own scientific investigations. Selected students from 35 regions in South Africa then compete against the best young scientists from around the country and around the world.

The young scientists from the Maths, Science and ICT School of Specialisation earned a spot at the prestigious science fair with their research project, “The Effect of Garlic and Clove Extract Solution on Plant Growth, Soil Microbial Activity and Plant Growth”.

The Gauteng Department of Education has since congratulated the learners.

“Beyond science, learners from Dr Oliphant have continued to excel across various fields; most recently, two learners from the school secured fourth position in the Provincial Moot Court Competition, earning a place at the National Moot Court Competition. The achievement reflects the school’s growing reputation for developing learners who can compete and excel well beyond the classroom. For Ngali and Mayisele, however, the next challenge is firmly rooted in science.”

“Their research will see them compete alongside some of the country’s brightest young minds at the ISF, where school-based scientific projects are showcased, and young innovators are allowed to demonstrate how their ideas can contribute to solving real-world challenges. Their qualification is not only a personal achievement, but another milestone for a school that continues to prove that its learners can shine across disciplines and on every stage,” the department said.

The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, Mologadi Motshele, said every project that reaches the Eskom Expo International Science Fair started with a young person asking a question and having the opportunity to explore it.

“Through Eskom’s investment in the Eskom Expo, we are helping learners develop the research, problem-solving and communication skills that will serve them well beyond the competition. Importantly, we are creating pathways for young people, especially girls and learners from previously disadvantaged communities, to access STEMI opportunities. When a learner’s idea can progress from their school or community to a national platform, and potentially to winning a bursary or an international science fair, we see the real impact of investing in young scientific talent.”