Since its establishment in 1980, the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists has grown into South Africa’s largest science fair for school learners. Offering young people a platform to explore real-world challenges through scientific inquiry and to develop solutions that could shape the future, regional expos are hosted annually in all nine provinces, with the most promising learners advancing to the Young Scientists International Science Fair (ISF).
On 17 August 2025, the Eskom Expo proudly hosted the 30th Kimberley Regional Science Fair at Sol Plaatje University, celebrating three decades of innovation, discovery, and excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Opening the event, Ms Katlego Tsogang, Project Manager of the Eskom Expo in the Northern Cape, expressed pride in learners’ achievements. Whilst thanking teachers, mentors, judges, sponsors, and partners for their dedication, Ms Tsogang also encouraged the learners to embrace curiosity: “Science is not only about answers, but about the courage to ask bold questions. May today spark new ideas, build lasting friendships, and inspire futures full of discovery.”
The Cape Town leg of the expo took place on 20 August 2025 at the University of Cape Town Sports and Recreation Centre. In her address, Ms Elspeth Khembo, Director for MST at the DBE, congratulated the learners on their outstanding work and encouraged them to pursue their studies with commitment and passion. “The Department is proud to champion STEM education, ensuring students receive the guidance and resources they need to excel. We thank educators and sponsors for enabling young scientists to push boundaries and explore new ideas,” said Ms Khembo.
In both expos the learners’ projects covered a wide spectrum of disciplines, with particularly strong representation in engineering, environmental studies, social sciences, energy, and computer science and software development. A distinguished panel of judges carefully evaluated each entry, focusing on creativity, scientific process, and relevance, and ensuring that learners are prepared to advance to the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair, scheduled to take place from 6-10 October 2025.
The regional expos are not only a celebration of talent but also a powerful reminder of the limitless potential of South Africa’s youth. By tackling complex problems with creativity, determination, and scientific rigour, these learners are laying the foundation for a brighter, more innovative future. As Ms Portia Mnngomezulu, Group Executive for Corporate Services at Eskom, put it, young scientists should “keep dreaming, keep innovating, your ideas and determination can shape South Africa’s future!”