Two Grade 12 pupils from Newcastle - Hamzah Ismail and Vibhav Ramdas - will represent South Africa at the International Festival of Engineering, Science and Technology in Tunisia, showcasing their innovative projects on eco-friendly construction and road maintenance.

Hamzah Ismail and Vibhav Ramdas, of St Dominics Newcastle School, are Eskom Expo International Science Fair 2024 gold medal recipients.

They earned the opportunities to showcase their research projects at the festival, from March 21 to 27, following a nomination by a panel of academics and professionals at the Eskom Expo.

Hamzah will showcase his research project: “Developing eco-friendly, fire-retardant plastic bricks as an alternative in modern construction” in the environmental science category.

"Hamzah's project was selected for the fair due to its potential environmental impact, practicality, and remarkable scientific merit – making it a strong representation of South Africa’s contributions to global challenges in engineering and technology," according to a statement by the Eskom Expo.

"The project, which has the potential to revolutionise the construction industry, addresses the urgent issue of plastic waste by repurposing it into eco-friendly construction materials.

"It aims to make building practices more sustainable, cost-effective, and safe. Additionally, it could help combat plastic pollution. With further development, this innovation could be scaled up for global use."

Vibhav will present his research project: “Using Object Detection to Improve Road Maintenance” in the computer science category.

His project was selected to represent South Africa at the festival due to its innovative technology, practical real-world applications, and potential to make a significant impact on road safety and maintenance.

"Its multidisciplinary nature and the ability to address both local and global challenges make it a strong candidate for international recognition. The significance of Vibhav's findings lies in the potential of his object detection-based system to revolutionise road maintenance and improve traffic safety."

Mologadi Motshele, the Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (acting), said through the Eskom Expo, pupils are inspired to explore critical local and global challenges.

This, she said, was done by applying scientific inquiry to develop practical and forward-thinking solutions.

"By addressing issues such as plastic pollution and creative ideas to improve road maintenance and road safety, Hamzah and Vibhav are making meaningful contributions toward a more sustainable future for our country.

"Eskom is proud to support and invest in the Eskom Expo initiative, ensuring that learners have access to the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to transform their ideas into impactful innovations.

"More than just a platform for showcasing talent, the Eskom Expo is a flagship programme that equips young scientists with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive positive change and build a better South Africa.”

Parthy Chetty, Eskom Expo Executive Director, said: “These two exceptional young scientists make South Africa proud as they represent our country at this esteemed international science fair, showcasing their innovative research on a global platform.

"Their journey to this achievement was made possible through the invaluable support of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, which nurtures young minds in STEM. The performance of these learners locally highlights South Africa’s emerging scientific talent and underscores the impact of youth-driven innovation. Congratulations to these bright minds as they inspire future generations.”

Registration to take part in Eskom Expo 2025 is open.

Learners from grades 4 to 12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET students (NCV Level 2–4) can register their research projects by visiting www.exposcience.co.za

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Grade 12 pupils from Newcastle to present eco-friendly innovations at international festival