Diverse projects during the Eskom Expo for
Young Scientists in the Callie Human Centre
on the UFS Bloemfontein Campus.
Photo: Rulanzen Martin

“The expo is an amazing opportunity for learners, as it exposes them to science and mathematics. This will help them if they want to pursue a career in science,” said Pieter Kirsten, Bloemfontein Regional Science Fair Director.

He was talking about the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, which took place at the University of the Free State (UFS) from 11-13 August 2016 in the Callie Human Centre on the Bloemfontein Campus. The UFS Department of Natural and Agricultural Sciences has been the expo’s prize sponsors for the past 36 years. Prof Danie Vermeulen, Dean of the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, was a key speaker at the prize-giving ceremony on Saturday 13 August 2016.

Young minds thinking outside the box

Keaton Lombard, a Grade 7 learner, spoke about his project like a seasoned young scientist. Vehicles burn only about 20% of fuel while the other 80% is released into the atmosphere, polluting the air. “My project is to try to assist 100% of the fuel burning, to minimize emissions,” he said.

The projects were very diverse, with primary school learners focusing more on health sciences while high school learners had more in-depth research projects ranging from alternative energy to social initiatives.

Alternative medicine played a valuable role. Two Grade 7 learners, Bonolo Bhuti and Bonolo Sehloho, researched alternative medicine for children. They made their own remedy with natural ingredients, such as ginger, cinnamon, honey, lemons, and turmeric.

A total of 70 bronze, 53 silver, and 24 gold medals were handed out. A group of 27 learners will attend the International Science Fair (ISF) in Johannesburg during October.