Northern Cape pupil impresses as he claims award at Eskom Expo

Kalafo Matsebe, an 18-year-old pupil from Dibotswa High School in Kuruman's Dithakong village, has made a name for himself as one of the Northern Cape's most promising young innovators.

Matsebe was an entrant in the recent Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF), and his project, "Organ Transport Container," earned him a Bronze medal and the Durban University of Technology's Young Innovator Award.

The Eskom Expo ISF, held at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Kempton Park, brought together top young scientists from South Africa and around the world. Matsebe says that passion for electronics and innovation drove his project. "What drew me to Eskom Expo is the love and the ability I have when it comes to working with electronics," he said.

Matsebe's win includes a tablet computer and entry into a 12-month mentorship and incubation support programme valued at R15,000.

"To win an award was very exciting and a very good moment. It left a feeling of greatness and also motivates me to keep going," he said.

The Eskom Expo experience has had a profound impact on Matsebe's perspective on science and perseverance. He says that the competition has given him a deepr appreciation of hard work, and how to motivate himself when faced with challenges. "Eskom Expo has given me motivation to keep on doing what you believe you can do. Even when you fall, you must pick yourself up and not give up.

"It has taught me to never let any circumstances define my life," he said.

Matsebe hopes to inspire other young scientists from rural areas. "Even when there are challenges that set you back, you should never stop dreaming. Make the impossible possible, because it is only you who can make that difference," he said.

Matsebe's dedication and perseverance embody the true spirit of the Eskom Expo: using curiosity, creativity, and courage to shape a brighter future through science.