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Department of Chemistry hosts Annual Eskom Expo for Young Scientists
4 September 2023
Enthusiastic young scientists seized the opportunity to exhibit their remarkable scientific and innovative research projects at this year’s regional Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, Northern Gauteng region, hosted by the Tshwane University of Technology’s Department of Chemistry late August 2023.
This is South Africa’s biggest and oldest Science Expo and we were privileged to host 350 learners in grades 4 to 12 from the region to present their research projects. The evaluation of the projects on display was carried out by judges comprising TUT Faculty of Science staff and postgraduate students, specialists, scholars and avid Eskom Expo supporters.
Eskom Expo Regional Science Fairs are annual events that take place across 4 regions in the Gauteng Province. Learners in grades 4 – 12 are challenged to present their completed scientific investigation, engineering, social science or mathematics/theoretical research projects across 13 scientific disciplines. The best learners at these Regional Expos stand a chance to be selected to represent the region and the province at the annual International Science Fair to compete against learners from across the country and other invited international teams. Learners also stand a chance to be selected to represent South Africa internationally at expos around the world.
According to Prof Yolanda Havenga, Acting Assistant Dean: Teaching and Learning at the Faculty of Science, the Faculty takes pride in its commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for science among school children. “After signing a Memorandum of Understating, the Faculty will host the annual expo for the next five years, creating an exciting platform for young minds to showcase their innovative ideas, explore the wonders of science and ignite their passion for a future in scientific pursuits.”
“Hosting the expo signals the Department of Chemistry’s commitment to community engagement, education and the advancement of science. The department serves as a nurturing ground for aspiring scientists and fosters a strong sense of curiosity and inquiry among the young participants. By bringing high school children onto the science campus, they get a glimpse of what tertiary education in science entails and how they can contribute to the scientific community in the future. The impact of science expos on the future career choices of school children cannot be overstated. These events serve as a spark that ignites the passion for science in many young hearts, leaving a lasting impression on their minds. When students actively participate in experiments, demonstrations and workshops during the expo, they gain first-hand experience and become more confident in their abilities.” said Dr Jacqueline Tembu, Head of Department of Chemistry.
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