Global Young Scientists Gather for Eskom Expo International Science Fair 2025

The 2025 Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair (ISF) has officially begun, bringing together 319 young scientific minds from seven countries to showcase their innovative research projects at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park.

Global Participation and Scientific Innovation

This year's expo features participants from South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Ireland, India, and Russia who are presenting projects that address both personal and community challenges. The young scientists aim to develop solutions with real-world applications that can benefit their schools and communities.

As part of the experience, participants toured the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre this week, where they engaged with cutting-edge science, technology, and Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) exhibitions. The newly restored Wits Anglo American Digital Dome added another dimension to their scientific exploration.

Substantial Prizes and Bursary Opportunities

The stakes are high for participants, with sponsors offering substantial rewards for outstanding projects. Organizations including the University of Pretoria, Babcock, Siemens Energy, and Eskom are providing 12 full bursaries for engineering degrees at South African universities, with a combined value exceeding R8 million.

Additional incentives include cash prizes of up to R100,000, laptops, and tablet computers, making the competition a potential life-changing opportunity for participants.

Long-Term Vision for STEM Development

According to Mologadi Motshele, Eskom Development Foundation Acting Chief Executive Officer, the expo serves a strategic purpose beyond the immediate competition: "The Eskom Expo is not about short-term results, it is about long-term transformation. Eskom's CSI Strategy is designed to ensure that learners from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, with a special focus on girls, are nurtured and given space to thrive in STEMI."

Parthy Chetty, Eskom Expo Executive Director, described the event as "more than a competition," calling it "a testament to the power of ideas, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge."

Public Viewing and Award Ceremonies

The public is invited to visit the exhibition hall on Thursday, October 9, from 15:00 to 17:00 at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre to view the projects firsthand.

Those unable to attend in person can watch the Special Awards ceremony on Thursday, October 9 at 18:45, and the Grand Awards ceremony on Friday, October 10 at 09:00, via livestream at www.exposcience.co.za/isf.

Key Terms Explained

STEMI - Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation: The core educational disciplines that form the foundation of technical education and scientific progress.

4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) - The current era of technological advancement characterized by the fusion of digital, biological, and physical systems, including artificial intelligence, robotics, and the Internet of Things.

CSI Strategy - Corporate Social Investment Strategy: A company's planned approach to contributing to social development and addressing community needs through targeted investments and initiatives.