THERE is no doubt that pupils in Mzansi have a hunger for science.
And Eskom’s exhibitions for young scientists are inspiring others to work hard towards their goals to being future providers.
The regional expos, which took place across country between July and September, showed that Mzansi pupils find innovative uses for science.
The most outstanding displays at these expos were selected to be part of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair, taking place in Joburg from 3 to 6 October.
The science fair is a platform aimed at discovering inventiveness and excellence in science.
SunEducation attended one of the recent expos at the University of Joburg, Soweto Campus.
Keanon Maccario, in grade 8 at Horizon High School in Turffontein, Joburg, was one of 390 pupils who exhibited on the day.
He built a generator to help solve Mzansi’s power problems.
“I want people living in poor communities to use this generator to run their houses.”
Nicholas Bixa, regional science fair director, said pupils from grades 4 to 12 take part in the programme every year.
Katleho Moeketsi, a grade 10 pupil at Meyerton High School, was thrilled to show off his hydro-generator at the Eskom Expo.
“Last year I went to Smart Young Minds. This year, I’m here and I’m excited.”
Solar panels power his generator which filters and stores rainwater.
Lesedi Mokoka, in grade 10 at Star College in Pretoria, refined his solar-power project. This year he focused on angles and harnessing energy absorbed by glass.
Nkazimulo Sibanda, a grade 9 pupil at Thuto-Kitso High School, won the Eskom Best Development Project for exploring smoke as a source of energy. Husnaa Mia and Ramanata Maguiraga, grade 10 pupils from Nizamiya High School, got the Eskom Special Prizes for their project “Pinecone Power”.
For more information about the Eskom science fair and expo, visit www.exposcience.co.za.
