Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Nomalungelo Gina spent Thursday afternoon engaging with young scientists at the 46th Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair, moving among the exhibition stands and listening intently to learners who had reached the final stage after months of workshops, district expos, and regional fairs.
The Deputy Minister’s visit preceded her keynote address at the special awards ceremony, where the country’s brightest young scientific minds were recognised for their innovative projects. The Eskom Expo, one of Africa’s largest science fairs, provides a platform for school learners to showcase research and inventions that address real-world challenges, from renewable energy and water conservation to healthcare and artificial intelligence.
Gina expressed her admiration for the learners’ creativity, dedication, and problem-solving abilities, noting that their work reflects the potential of South Africa’s next generation of innovators. “These young people are not just participants in a competition—they are the architects of our future,” Gina said. “Their projects demonstrate that with curiosity, hard work, and the right support, our youth can develop solutions that change lives and drive our economy forward.”
The Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of investing in STEM education and creating pathways for young scientists to pursue careers in research, engineering, and technology. She also highlighted the role of public-private partnerships, such as the long-standing collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology and Eskom, in nurturing scientific talent from a young age.
Learners who spoke to the media described their experience at the expo as life-changing, citing the opportunity to network with peers, receive feedback from experts, and gain confidence in their abilities. Many expressed hopes of pursuing further studies and careers in science-related fields.
The 46th Eskom Expo has drawn participants from across South Africa and several other African countries, reinforcing its status as a continental platform for youth innovation. As the awards ceremony concluded, the message was clear: South Africa’s future in science and technology is bright, and it is being built by young hands today. For the learners, the expo is not just a competition—it is a stepping stone to greatness.
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