By Levy Masiteng
Four exceptional South African learners are representing the country at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Columbus, Ohio in the United States.
The competition includes research projects from over 1800 high school learners.
The learners are Salusiwe Mxayiya from Luhlaza High School in Khayelitsha, Ismaail (Miles) Hassen from Greenside High School in Johannesburg, Naveera Chana from Tesseract Homeschool in Johannesburg and Binyameen (Bini) Mohamedy from the University of Johannesburg Metropolitan Academy.
Mxayiya project is on investigating parasitic infection in marine species, Hassen’s in on developing assistive technology for the visually impaired, Chana focuses on creating a low-cost gas exchange system, and Mohamedy explores mathematical innovation in prime generating functions.
According to Eskom Expo academic director Krishnie Naidoo, the learners’ projects demonstrate a commitment to addressing real-world problems and showcase the calibre of local research.
“The research done by our four participants is an indication that our youth are indeed responding to the needs of our time: sustainability, environmental concerns and inclusivity of differently abled persons,” she said.
Eskom Development Foundation acting CEO Mologadi Motshele said that the inclusion of South African learners in the Regeneron ISEF highlighted the international standard of local research.
“Our commitment to developing the next generation of scientists and engineers through the Eskom Expo remains steadfast,” she said.
The Western Cape education department has also expressed pride in Mxayiya’s achievement, highlighting her potential and the opportunities provided by the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists.
“Being a part of a group that goes to represent South Africa in the Regeneron ISEF in the United States means that I get to be a part of something that is so significant, and I get to inspire other kids in my school and community. It is a dream come true for me and something to give pride to my country, family and school,” said Mxayiya.
The department noted the significance of nurturing young scientific talent.
Eskom Expo’s district expos are currently underway in all provinces across the country and learners from Grade 4 to 12 are encouraged to register their research projects.
INSIDE EDUCATION
