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Four of South Africa’s most promising young scientists are gearing up to represent the country at the Initiative for Research and Innovation in STEM (IRIS) Global Symposium, scheduled to take place in India from January 27 to 31. These budding researchers, who all excelled at last October’s Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair, will present groundbreaking projects that address pressing environmental issues and enhance accessibility for the visually impaired.
The esteemed delegation, under the leadership of Dr Krishnie Naidoo, the Eskom Expo Academic Director, is poised to showcase innovations that not only highlight South Africa’s scientific talent but potentially hold solutions for global challenges.
Promising projects leading the way
The selected pupils, each presenting unique projects, are making strides in various fields of science:
- Melokuhle Khuzwayo and Simesihle Khuzwayo from King Bhekuzulu High School in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal
- Project: “Double Trouble, Double Solution: Neutralising acids and plastics with nature’s help”
- Summary: Their innovative research showcases how banana peel and yeast extracts can effectively reduce water acidity and remove microplastics, sometimes outpacing traditional chemical treatments. This practical application provides a sustainable and affordable method for improving water quality, especially in resource-limited communities.
- Jivesh Ramnath from Hoërskool Richardsbaai in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
- Project: “JØ7 Vireo: Development of a low-cost AI-powered navigation device for the blind and visually impaired”
- Summary: Jivesh’s device aims to enhance the mobility of blind and visually impaired individuals by using real-time object identification and distance awareness. Highlighting affordability and scalability, this project represents a significant advancement in AI-driven assistive technology.
- Nkanteko Moyane from Daleview Secondary School, Gauteng
- Project: “ECOHARVEST: Integrated Phytoremediation for contaminated soil and mining wastewater”
- Summary: This research demonstrates the effectiveness of using hyper-accumulator plants to remove heavy metals from polluted soil, achieving up to a 63.5% reduction. The findings provide hope for restoring mining-affected lands and supporting healthier food production through natural treatments.
Mologadi Motshele, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, expressed pride in supporting the next generation of innovators. She stated, “Investing in young scientists strengthens South Africa’s future, developing leaders who will drive technological advancement, sustainability, and social impact on both a national and global scale. We wish our pupils all the best as they take South Africa’s scientific talent to the world stage.”
The Eskom Expo continues to be a vital platform for pupils in Grades 4–12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. Those interested in participating can register their projects at www.exposcience.co.za.
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