Outstanding young scientists from the Mopani district were recognised for their research and innovation after presenting 162 projects at the Eskom Expo Mopani Regional Science Fair held at Mopani TVET College’s Phalaborwa Campus on 8 August 2026.
Wide participation across school grades and TVET
The regional fair brought together 205 learners representing Grades 4 to 12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students enrolled at NC(V) Levels 2–4. Projects were entered across the 13 categories used by the Eskom Expo programme, with a notable emphasis on engineering and the social sciences.
Organisers reported that participants had progressed to the regional event after taking part in Eskom Expo activities during the year, including compulsory District Expos and workshops that offered guidance from judges, mentors and STEMI (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation) professionals.
What the entries showed
The most popular category was Engineering, which attracted 41 entries. Social Sciences followed closely with 40 entries, while the Energy category drew 19 projects. The projects reflected a range of interests and attempts to address community-level problems through scientific inquiry and applied problem-solving.
- Total projects: 162
- Participants: 205 learners and TVET students
- Top three categories (by entries): Engineering (41), Social Sciences (40), Energy (19)
- Medals awarded: 19 Gold, 45 Silver, 52 Bronze
Awards, sponsors and organisers
During the awards ceremony young researchers were recognised for scientific research and innovation. A total of 19 Gold, 45 Silver and 52 Bronze medals were presented. In addition, a number of Special Awards were made, sponsored by Eskom.
“This year’s regional event was a resounding success, showcasing the innovation, creativity and problem‑solving skills of young scientists from across the region. We congratulate all the learners who participated and those who received special recognition for their outstanding projects. Our sincere appreciation goes to the Mopani Regional Volunteer Committee; our title sponsor, Eskom; the Palabora Foundation; Palabora Mining Company; Foskor; Mopani TVET College; our judges; educators; and all our partners for their invaluable support,”
The statement was attributed to Cynthia Lebetha, the Eskom Expo’s Mopani Regional Science Fair Director, who emphasised the ongoing role of partnerships in providing learning opportunities for young scientists.
| Medal | Number awarded |
|---|---|
| Gold | 19 |
| Silver | 45 |
| Bronze | 52 |
The Mopani regional event is part of the broader Eskom Expo programme, which stages district, regional and national science fairs designed to nurture scientific curiosity and build practical skills among learners. Participation in earlier district activities, mentoring sessions and workshops is a compulsory part of progression to regionals, organisers said.
Why this matters
Regional fairs such as Mopani’s serve several functions in the South African education landscape. They provide practical, assessment‑style environments where learners apply the scientific method — formulating hypotheses, collecting data, analysing results and communicating findings — all skills that are essential for progression into tertiary STEM study or technical careers.
Partnerships with industry and higher‑education institutions — highlighted at Mopani by sponsors and local college involvement — supply mentors, judges and sometimes equipment or funding. That support helps bridge gaps between classroom learning and real‑world scientific practice, particularly in areas where resources are limited.
Organisers thanked the Mopani Regional Volunteer Committee, title sponsor Eskom, the Palabora Foundation, Palabora Mining Company, Foskor, Mopani TVET College, judges, educators and partner organisations for their contributions to the event.
Successful projects and medal winners from regional fairs typically progress to national selection rounds, where they compete for places at the Eskom Expo National Science and Technology Fair. The national fair channels some top projects into international science fair opportunities.
By spotlighting grassroots science activity and offering structured progression routes, the Eskom Expo programme continues to play a practical role in building the next generation of South African scientists and technicians.
