Northern Cape young scientists head to Eskom Expo International Science Fair

South Africa's brightest young minds are gearing up for the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair, a premier event that catapults talented learners into the spotlight of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation (STEMI).

Happening from 6 to 10 October 2025 at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Kempton Park, this year's fair will showcase projects from 303 learners across 35 regions in South Africa, alongside 16 international participants from countries like Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mexico, Ireland, India, and Russia. Even learners from Ghana and Mozambique will get a chance to participate virtually.

In the Northern Cape, talented learners from various schools have made it to the Eskom Expo International Science Fair.

Here are the Northern Cape finalists:

Kimberley

Anzania Small (Bongani Secondary School)

Kirsten Aleksier (Kimberley Girl’s High School)

Cady de Koker (Northern Cape High School)

Oparna Maharaj (Newton Primary School)

Kalahari

Kalafo Matsebe (Dibotswa High School)

Mahir Siddika (Postmasburg High School)

Mckayla Booyesen (Curro Kathu)

Ciara Strauss (Upington High School)

Keara Strauss (Upington High School)

Warona Kakue (Motshwarakgole Intermediate)

Mukona Muvamba (Postmasburg High School)

Namaqua

Anneke Nel (Calvinia Primary School)

Helena van Schalkwyk (Calvinia Primary School)

Landon Bonn (S.A Van Wyk High School)

Vernique Koopman (Calvinia Primary School)

Prizes worth millions up for grabs

With organisations like Babcock International, Siemens Energy, and the University of Pretoria (UP) on board, the stakes are high and the rewards life-changing.

Eight full bursaries for engineering degrees at a South African university – worth over R6 million – are up for grabs. Plus, there's more than R400,000 in cash prizes and tech goodies like laptops and tablets sponsored by Eskom Holdings, SAEON, and others.

"Eskom’s CSI investment into STEMI is more than a financial contribution; it is a direct commitment to changing lives," says Mologadi Motshele, Eskom Development Foundation Acting Chief Executive Officer. Eskom Expo Executive Director Parthy Chetty adds, "The International Science Fair 2025 is set to ignite global curiosity and celebrate innovation from young minds across the world."

2025 Eskom Expo International Science Fair finalists: www.exposcience.co.za