Brilliant minds: Northern Cape students among SA's rising science stars

THE NATIONAL Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) has announced the 19 top performers in physical science and mathematics who have been selected for the prestigious 2025 NSTF Brilliants Programme.

These outstanding students, representing all nine provinces in South Africa, have demonstrated exceptional achievement in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.

Cherise Angelique Müller, Andre de Boer (who was also selected for LIYSF), and Kgopolo Danny Ibang from the Northern Cape have been selected for the Brilliants Programme.

The NSTF Brilliants Programme, now in its 24th year, provides a national platform to recognise and celebrate students' excellence in science and mathematics. This year's cohort includes seven students who have been selected to attend the London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF) in the United Kingdom. Andre de Boer from Hoërskool Diamantveld will be attending the LIYSF.

The LIYSF is a 15-day programme that brings together 500 of the world's brightest young scientists from over 80 countries. The forum features lecture demonstrations, specialist seminars, and debates led by renowned scientists and experts. This year's event will take place from July 23 to August 6.

As part of the programme, the students will participate in a STEM-related educational tour, with those not attending the LIYSF visiting research facilities in Gauteng and the North West province. The students will also attend the prestigious NSTF-South32 Awards Gala Event, known as the "Science Oscars of SA".

The DSTI and South32 are generously sponsoring the attendance of the selected students at the LIYSF, continuing a partnership that started in previous years. The NSTF has applauded these sponsors for their support in nurturing young scientific talent.

Meet the exceptional students of the 2025 NSTF Brilliants Programme and LIYSF representatives, who are set to make their mark in the world of science and technology:

Cherise Angelique Müller

Hoërskool Diamantveld

BSc (Chemistry and Mathematics)

North-West University (NWU)

Bursary and Merit Award: Anglo American Top 20 Award, PEP Stores and NWU Merit Award

Andre de Boer

(also selected for LIYSF)

Hoërskool Diamantveld

BEng (Industrial Engineering)

Stellenbosch University

Bursary and Merit Award: MerSETA and Northern Cape Top 20 Prize

Kgopolo Danny Ibang

Galaletsang Science SS

BSc (Computer Science and Informatics)

University of Johannesburg 

Bursary and Merit Award: South Hill Trading

The NSTF also applauded the parents, guardians, educators, and mentors who have supported these exceptional students, highlighting the transformative power of education in shaping the next generation of scientists and innovators.

As Nelson Mandela once said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."