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South Africa’s next generation of scientists has made a strong impression on the global stage, returning home with top honours from an international science competition in Bali, Indonesia.
It comes after four young researchers secured medals at the World Innovative Science Project Olympiad (WISPO), an annual event that brings together emerging scientific talent from around the world, as reported by NovaNews.
The competition took place from 10 to 13 December and is organised by the Indonesia Scientific Society to promote innovation and collaboration among young scientists.
The South African delegation stood out among their peers, with all four students previously recognised as gold medallists at the Eskom Expo International Science Fair, a key pipeline for developing young research talent locally.
Gold medals and global recognition
Among the standout performers was Albertus Willem (Wium) van Niekerk, a Grade 10 learner from Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch. Van Niekerk earned both a gold medal and the competition’s prestigious Grand Award for his research exploring lavender essential oil as an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fungicides used in citrus farming.
‘I am very thankful for the awards I have received at WISPO,’ he said. ‘It is very gratifying to be recognised on an international stage for the hard work which I have put into my project over the last two years.’
Another gold medal went to Ismaail (Miles) Hassen, a Grade 11 pupil at Greenside High School in Johannesburg.
His project, Design and Evaluation of Walk Man: A Wearable Assistive Device for Enhanced Navigation in Individuals with Visual Impairment, focused on improving mobility support through wearable technology.
‘Winning is always rewarding, but what made the experience truly special was the honour of representing my country,’ Hassen said.
Two additional South African learners earned silver medals, further underlining the breadth of innovation on display.
Milla Vorster, a Grade 11 learner from Curro Durbanville, was recognised for her work on 3D bioprinting techniques aimed at advancing regenerative medicine.
Dzunisa Chauke, a Grade 12 learner from Khanyisa Education Centre in Mopani, received a silver medal for his project focused on detecting AI-generated audio, addressing emerging cybersecurity threats.
‘Winning an award at WISPO makes me feel very proud of myself, especially because it took place on an international stage,’ Chauke said, adding that the cultural exchange in Bali was a highlight of the experience.
Commenting on the achievement, Eskom Expo Executive Director Parthy Chetty praised the learners’ dedication and impact.
‘What an achievement! Huge congratulations to our top four young scientists, who represented South Africa with pride at the WISPO in Bali,’ Chetty stated.
The students travelled under the guidance of Jane Wasonga, Eskom Expo Johannesburg Regional Science Fair Director, who accompanied the delegation throughout the competition.
With registration for the next Eskom Expo still open, organisers are encouraging more learners to take part. The programme is open to pupils in Grades 4 to 12, as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students from NC(V) Level 2 to Level 4.
Aspiring young researchers can register their projects at www.exposcience.co.za, continuing a pathway that has once again shown its potential to launch South African innovation onto the world stage.
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Picture: Exposcience
