It was inventions galore as usual at the recent 2016 Eskom Expo for Young Scientists that was held at DUT Ritson Campus.

The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists functions at all levels; ranging from the individual student in the classroom to the provincial basic education departments, and spreads out to tertiary education institutions, commerce and industry.

The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists arranges 35 regional science expos across the country and one prestigious International Science Fair (ISF) where students exhibit their research or investigative work and are judged by experts.

Future researchers and scientists from around KwaZulu-Natal attended the Eskom Expo event to showcase their findings as well as bringing game changing inventions. The creations raged from solar powered charges to water cleaning devices. Pupils with exceptional projects stood a chance of walking away with a surprise package, as well as an opportunity to represent KZN nationally.

According to Prince Mathe, a Medical Specialist MRCSA and Convener at the Eskom Expo, students who went beyond the curriculum research-wise had better chances of winning top prizes. “Although the categories differ, let’s say from primary all the way to higher education and training, we want the child to go beyond the curriculum. It will show that you are able to do your research and present yourself articulately and confidently in relations,” he said.

One of 2016s finalists, Star Collage Boys’ Rahul Heeralall, who built a Solar Powered Water Desalination Plant said his project took him only a week to complete. “Anything is possible if you put energy in it,” he said.

–          Siphephelo Sibiya and Phumeza Msongelwa

Pictured: Star Collage Boys’ Rahul Heeralall at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists.