The Department of Basic Education (DBE), in collaboration with the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, hosted the 2026 International Science Fair (ISF) from 29 September to 2 October at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Gauteng. The prestigious event brought together 316 young scientists from 35 Eskom Expo regions across all nine provinces, alongside 24 international participants, providing learners with a platform to showcase their research, creativity and innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists continues to play an important role in nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, research and problem-solving skills among young people. Through opportunities such as the International Science Fair, learners are encouraged to explore their interests, test their ideas and develop solutions that can contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.
Officially welcoming guests to the 2026 Award Ceremony, Dr Anitha Ramsuran, Vice-Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, celebrated the young scientists for their creativity, determination and commitment to their research. She also acknowledged the teachers, mentors, judges, volunteers, sponsors and partners whose dedication continues to make the Expo a valuable platform for young innovators.
Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, at the special awards on the evening of 1 October 2026, congratulated the young scientists for reaching this important milestone and recognised the discipline and countless hours of research invested in their projects. She highlighted the international nature of the event, emphasising that science knows no borders and that collaboration enables young people to exchange knowledge, learn from one another and develop solutions to challenges affecting communities around the world.
Delivering the keynote address on the morning of 2 October 2026, Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, encouraged learners to remain curious and courageous in asking questions and finding solutions. She highlighted the importance of projects addressing challenges such as climate change, water conservation, food security and energy security, describing the young scientists as innovators and problem-solvers who are already contributing to a better future. The Minister also recognised the important role of teachers, parents and mentors in creating opportunities for young people to reach their full potential. She encouraged learners to understand that an award is not the destination, but the beginning of an even greater journey. She urged them to embrace failure as part of the scientific process, to continue experimenting and remaining resilient in pursuing their goals.
The evening also celebrated achievements that could shape the learners’ academic futures. Eskom provisionally awarded merit bursaries to six young scientists, recognising their academic performance, innovation and achievements. Four Eskom Special Awards were also presented for Best Development Project, Best Female Participant, Best Innovation Project and Best Energy Project.
For some young scientists, the event opened the door to further opportunities in Higher Education. Hamzah Loonat from Hoërskool Middelburg and Shalom Lasimu from Hoërskool General Hertzog, both from the Nkangala Region, each received a Siemens Energy Higher Education Bursary valued at R675,000. The bursaries will support their pursuit of Bachelor of Science degrees in Engineering at a South African University of their choice. Scott Baker from Bryanston High School received the prestigious University of Pretoria/Derek Gray Memorial Award, including a University of Pretoria bursary valued at R600,000 and the Derek Gray Gold Medal.
Eskom Expo Executive Director, Mr Parthy Chetty, congratulated the winners and praised their projects as examples of innovation, perseverance and excellence. He also expressed appreciation to Eskom, sponsors and partners for their continued support in creating opportunities for young scientists. The future of science is built on curious minds, bold ideas and the courage to solve the challenges of tomorrow. At the International Science Fair, that future is already taking shape.