Eskom Expo Top Achievers to Represent South Africa at IRIS Symposium in India

Four of South Africa’s top young scientists will represent the country at the Initiative for Research and Innovation in STEM (IRIS) Global Symposium in India later this month. The learners were selected after standing out at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair (ISF).

IRIS Global Symposium runs from 27 to 31 January 2026

The learners will compete from 27 to 31 January 2026. They will present research projects focused on real-world challenges. These include water quality improvement, environmental clean-up, and assistive technology for people living with visual impairment. Dr Krishnie Naidoo, Eskom Expo Academic Director, will lead the South African delegation.

Projects include water treatment, assistive AI, and mining remediation

The team includes Melokuhle Khuzwayo and Simesihle Khuzwayo from King Bhekuzulu High School in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal. They will present “Double Trouble, Double Solution: Neutralising acids and plastics with nature’s help.” Their study explored banana peel and yeast extracts to reduce water acidity. It also tested how the extracts remove visible microplastics. The findings suggest a practical and affordable approach for communities with limited resources. In some cases, the natural materials matched or outperformed chemical treatments.

Also representing South Africa is Jivesh Ramnath from Hoërskool Richardsbaai in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. His project focuses on assistive technology. His innovation is titled “JØ7 Vireo: Development of a low-cost AI-powered navigation device for the blind and visually impaired.” The device aims to help users perceive their environment. It does this through real-time object identification and distance awareness. The research highlights the potential for affordable AI-driven mobility tools. It also focuses on hardware optimisation, model performance, and user interaction.

The delegation also includes Nkanteko Moyane from Daleview Secondary School in Gauteng. He will present “ECOHARVEST: Integrated Phytoremediation for contaminated soil and mining wastewater.” His study tested how plants can remove heavy metals from polluted soil and water. Results showed hyper-accumulator plants removed more heavy metals than ordinary plants. The addition of cow dung also improved performance. Heavy metal levels dropped by up to 63.5%. The findings point to a nature-based method for restoring mining-affected land. They also support safer food production.

Eskom Expo registration now open

The learners were selected after strong performances at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists ISF. The Expo provides a platform for learners to pursue science and innovation through research projects. Ms Mologadi Motshele, Acting CEO of the Eskom Development Foundation, said Eskom is proud to support young innovators. She added that investing in young scientists strengthens South Africa’s future.

Registration for the Eskom Expo is open. Learners in Grades 4 to 12 can enter. Students in TVET colleges from NC(V) Level 2 to Level 4 are also eligible. Learners can register their research projects by visiting www.exposcience.co.za.