In a remarkable showcase of ingenuity and scientific spirit, two South African learners, Thiedu Du Preez and Aadil Dawood, recently made their country proud by winning medals at the Izmir International Innovation Science Energy Engineering Fair (IISEEF) held in Türkiye.
Their outstanding projects, developed as part of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, highlight the creativity and potential of South Africa's next generation of innovators.
Seventeen-year-old Thiedu Du Preez from Vredenburg High School earned a Silver medal for his groundbreaking project, titled ‘Seal to Heal: Economical Natural Alternatives for Wound Healing'.
Du Preez's research aimed to explore the therapeutic potential of natural products as a substitute for chemical solutions in wound care.
His innovative approach addresses a crucial healthcare challenge, showcasing how simple, accessible solutions can be used to prevent harmful infections while promoting healing.
“It was an incredibly proud moment for me to walk onto the stage, collect my Silver medal, and hold the South African flag high with immense pride,” Du Preez expressed. “While it’s a personal achievement, it’s also a shared success for Eskom Expo, my hometown, my school, and South Africa.”
His experience at the IISEEF left him inspired, as he noted the importance of addressing ordinary yet ignored problems through science. Du Preez encouraged his peers to foster a love for science, mathematics, and engineering, suggesting that innovative thinkers could significantly impact societal issues.
Meanwhile, Aadil Dawood, also 17, from Bishops Diocesan College in Cape Town, received a Bronze medal for his project, ‘Spectro-metrical Analysis of Urinary Metabolic By-products Forming as a Result of Exercise’. His research delves into the biochemical effects of exercise on the human body, analysing urine metabolites to better understand health and fitness at a molecular level.
“It feels incredible to win a Bronze medal at the IISEEF. Being part of such an event is something I’ll always remember,” Dawood said, recounting his experiences.
“Meeting people from different countries and sharing ideas was inspiring.” The young scientist cherished the cultural exchange, appreciating historic sites and local cuisine during his time in İzmir.
The IISEEF attracted over 143 young scientists from 10 countries, featuring a diverse range of research projects across various STEM disciplines, including Physics and Biology. The event highlighted the potential of youth-led innovation in addressing global challenges.
Ms Mologadi Motshele, Acting CEO of the Eskom Development Foundation, lauded Du Preez and Dawood for their exceptional representation of South Africa.
“Their innovative research projects aim to advance our understanding of exercise physiology and the potential of natural ingredients,” she stated.
Motshele further emphasised Eskom's commitment to nurturing future scientists through initiatives like the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, which aim to strengthen the country's skills pipeline.
Echoing this sentiment, Eskom Expo Executive Director Parthy Chetty celebrated the achievements of the young scientists, asserting that their work showcases the boundless potential of creativity in STEM fields.
Chetty called on educators and mentors to continue supporting budding researchers, urging young dreamers to explore and innovate for a brighter future.