KNYSNA NEWS - Eskom Expo for young scientists is South Africa’s primary science fair for learners, where they have an opportunity to exhibit their own scientific investigations.
By participating in the expo, students increase their awareness of the wonders of science, add to their knowledge and explore entrepreneurial possibilities, while broadening their scientific horizons.
This year, Knysna High School (KHS) sent 18 learners to the regional trials held in Mossel Bay on 11 August, where five of them obtained bronze medals.
They were Lisa Bruwer, Belinda Mynhardt, Esono Silimela, Chantelle Koen and Mekyla Engelbrecht.
Three learners – Geradon Jantjies, Jacques Terblanche and Andrea Wolmarans – obtained silver. Geradon was chosen to represent the Eden Karoo district at the International Science Fair (ISF).
During the October holidays, 13 learners from the Eden Karoo district participated in the ISF, held in Johannesburg from 3 to 6 October.
ISF is South Africa’s largest school-level science fair.
Selected projects from the 35 regional expos, including our nine provinces, other African countries as well as two South- American countries, were showcased.
The awards consisted of R4-million worth of prizes, including full bursaries, international tours and large cash prizes.
All learners are encouraged to enter the expo for young scientists. As one learner said at the awards ceremony, when she spoke of Walt Disney’s Aladdin, comparing his magic carpet to science, "It opens doors and takes you places."
KHS was represented by Geradon, who made us very proud by achieving a bronze medal in this major league competition.
Geradon’s project was about the spekboom.
Geradon’s project was about the spekboom. This miracle plant was proven to be the tree that converts the biggest amount of carbon dioxide into oxygen, compared with other trees.
He has become an ambassador for this tree and encourages everyone in Knysna and South Africa to plant one to help decrease our carbon footprint.
The young scientist was beaming with enthusiasm after the "life-changing" experience. "Twelve months of hard work eventually paid off," he commented on being chosen.
"I recommend that you take part in the expo so that you can also help to solve problems in our country."
He also said he could not have done it without the staff and learners of KHS, the staff of Rheenendal Primary, Postnet Knysna for printing his project and pamphlets, family and friends, and Knysna municipality staff.
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