Young South African scientists set to shine at Taiwan International Science Fair

A Cape Town high school learner is among two young South African scientists set to showcase cutting-edge research on the world stage when they compete at the Taiwan International Science Fair later this month.

Yu-Yao Chen, 16, a Grade 11 learner at Curro Durbanville High School, will represent the country alongside Karabo Mpuru, 17, a former learner at Northern Academy in Polokwane. The pair earned the opportunity after excelling at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists.

The international science fair will take place from January 31 to February 7 at the National Taiwan Science Education Center in Taipei. The learners will travel under the guidance of delegation leader Toinette Horn, the Eskom Expo Stellenbosch Regional Science Fair director.

Mpuru will present her mathematics research project, Finding the constant difference in an arithmetic sequence, which developed two formulas to determine the common difference in any arithmetic sequence, including even and odd sequences.

Her research showed the formulas to be reliable and practical, with applications that could help learners save time in examinations, improve problem-solving skills and support further mathematical learning.

Chen will showcase her biomedical research project, Using macroalgae-infused bioink to improve oxygen delivery in 3D-bioprinted wound scaffolds. The study demonstrated that living seaweed can survive inside 3D-printed wound materials and produce oxygen when exposed to light — a process that could accelerate wound healing and offer a more energy-efficient approach to future medical treatments.

The Taiwan International Science Fair brings together school-going researchers from around the world and provides a platform for young scientists to present their work and engage in international collaboration. Final figures for participating countries and learners are still pending.

Acting chief executive officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, Mologadi Motshele, said the learners’ participation reflected the international standard of South Africa’s young scientists.

“The participation of our South African learners at the prestigious Taiwan International Science Fair reflects the international standard, innovation and scientific curiosity demonstrated by our young scientists,” Motshele said.

“Eskom is proud to support these learners as they push boundaries, explore new ideas, and showcase the future of science and innovation. We remain committed to empowering the next generation of scientists and engineers through the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists.”

Registration for the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists remains open to school learners in Grades 4 to 12, as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training students from NC(V) Level 2 to Level 4.

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Cape Argus