A group of 20 learners of various primary and secondary schools in the Free State are competing for prestigious prizes in this year’s Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) final. The event, which is ongoing in Kempton Park, Gauteng, will culminate in the announcement of the winners on 10 October.
They are part of the 303 learners from 35 regions across South Africa and 16 international participants − from Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mexico, Ireland, India and Russia. Additionally, seven participants from Ghana and Mozambique have an opportunity to participate virtually.
The candidates representing the province achieved top places at regional finals.
Various entities with a shared vested interest in providing opportunities for emerging scientists and engineers have committed prizes worth millions. Babcock International, Siemens Energy, the University of Pretoria (UP) and the UP’s Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (Ebit) are sponsoring eight full bursaries for learners to pursue engineering degrees at a South African university of their choice, contingent on meeting the required criteria upon receiving their matric results. These bursaries have a total value of more than R6 million.
Additionally, monetary prizes of more than R400 000 cash are up for grabs. These include sponsored laptops and tablet computers.
“Eskom’s corporate social investment (CSI) into Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Industry (Stemi) is more than a financial contribution; it is a direct commitment to changing lives,” said Mologadi Motshele, acting chief executive officer (CEO) for the Eskom Development Foundation.
“By enabling more than 17 000 learners to participate in Eskom Expo this year, the programme is giving opportunities to young people who would otherwise not have access.
“Importantly, this includes learners from previously disadvantaged communities and girls, who have historically been underrepresented in science and technology. Eskom Expo serves as a vehicle that ensures these learners are exposed to Stemi pathways, developing both confidence and skills.”
Free State participants include:
Bethlehem
■ Mosa Motsoeneng (Sentinel Primary School);
■ Mpolokeng Makgohlo (Sentinel Primary School);
■ Pheello Moloi (Kgola Thuto Secondary School);
■ Tumelo Thateng (Beacon Secondary School);
■ Thabang Radebe (Beacon Secondary School);
■ Bolielo Serongoane (Hoërskool Harrismith); and
■ Nobuhle Sibeko (Lindley High School).
Welkom
■ Calista Gerber (Welkom-Gymnasium High School);
■ Helené Fourie (Trio High School);
■ Leila Erasmus (Welkom-Volkskool);
■ Andile Malubela (Barnard Molokwane Secondary School);
■ Mphe Moloto (St Andrew’s School, Welkom);
■ Tshoanelo Setai (Eldoret Secondary School); and
■ Fatima Noor (Welkom-Gymnasium High School).
Bloemfontein
■ Jana Swanepoel (Oranje Meisieskool);
■ Zanele Witbooi (R.T. Mokgopa Secondary School);
■ Nneka Nwafor (Eunice High School);
■ Jaco Deysel (Jim Fouché High School);
■ Jemma Myburgh (Eunice Primary School); and
■ Rorisang Mohlobuli (Bloemfontein High School).
