FEEL-GOOD NEWS: New era of innovation as SA’s young scientists bring home gold
Four talented young scientists from South Africa are celebrating their remarkable achievements after winning gold and silver medals in India.
They returned home this week from the Initiative for Research and Innovation in STEM (IRIS) Global Symposium held in New Delhi.
The event showcased the groundbreaking research of young minds from around the globe tackling pressing challenges, particularly in environmental sustainability and technology.
Nkanteko Moyane, 15, from Daleview Secondary School in Gauteng, was awarded a gold medal for the research project, ECOHARVEST: Integrated Phytoremediation for contaminated soil and mining wastewater.
“Winning an award at the IRIS Global Symposium felt great because it shows that my hard work and dedication have been recognised on such a big international platform. I am proud to represent my country and grateful to everyone who supported me along the way, especially Eskom Expo for Young Scientists," said Moyane.
Another medal winner at the event was Jivesh Ramnath, 18, from Hoërskool Richardsbaai in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, for the research project, “JØ7 Vireo: Development of a low-cost AI-powered navigation device for the blind and visually impaired”, which enables blind and visually impaired persons to perceive their environment through real-time object identification and distance awareness.
“Winning a silver medal at the IRIS Global Symposium in the computer science category felt exhilarating,” said Ramnath.
Additionally, Melokuhle Khuzwayo and Simesihle Khuzwayo, both 17, from King Bhekuzulu High School in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, were awarded Participation Awards for their research project, “Double Trouble, Double Solution: Neutralising acids and plastics with nature’s help."
Eskom Expo Executive Director Parthy Chetty said these achievements are a display of scientific brilliance.
"The significance of the awards highlights our country's scientific talent and innovation. Two of our learners won grand awards, which shows that South African youth can compete at the highest international level. They have highlighted innovation in real-world challenges."
The projects address pressing issues like environmental restoration, proving that South Africa's young scientists are not only academically strong but also solution-oriented. Their win also strengthens our national reputation," said Chetty.
He further believes the government can play a crucial role in advancing scientific research and innovation by providing funding, establishing supportive policies, and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
"There are three key stakeholders, government, educational institutions and the private sector, who play a critical and integrated role in nurturing this young scientific talent. From the government's perspective, they can focus on policy support. They could even expand funding for STEM initiatives and competitions, such as science fairs and Olympiads,” Chetty added.
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