South African learners earn accolades at Taiwan science fair for innovative projects

Two South African learners from Limpopo and the Western Cape have been recognised for their innovative research at the prestigious Taiwan International Science Fair, competing against hundreds of young scientists from around the world.

Karabo Mpuru, a former learner at Northern Academy in Polokwane, and Yu-Yao Chen, a Grade 11 learner at Curro Durbanville High School, were each awarded third prizes, the South African equivalent of bronze medals at the international event.

The fair was hosted at the National Taiwan Science Education Center in Taipei from January 31 to February 7 and drew 667 learners and teachers from 32 countries.

Mpuru was recognised for her project, Finding the Constant Difference in an Arithmetic Sequence. She said winning an award at the fair was a powerful affirmation of her hard work.

“It’s a reminder of the hard work I put in. I loved the entire trip to Taiwan, especially Culture Night. It was exciting to receive candies and dance to music from different countries. My favourite performance was from Japan, because I was able to join in and dance along,” she said.

Mpuru added that she also enjoyed visiting temples and experiencing the traditional tea of the Hakka people.

Chen received her award for a project titled Using Macroalgae-Infused Bioink to Improve Oxygen Delivery in 3D-Bioprinted Wound Scaffolds. She described the recognition as deeply rewarding.

“Being acknowledged on an international stage makes all the hard work feel worthwhile, and it’s encouraging to know that my research was taken seriously,” she said.

“I want to encourage my peers to keep pushing forward and not be afraid to aim high. Opportunities like travelling overseas and meeting people from different countries are rare and unforgettable, and they make all the effort truly worth it.”

South Africa participates in the fair annually through the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, which enables local learners to present their research internationally while promoting cross-cultural exchange.

Participants also visited several iconic Taiwanese sites, including Taipei 101, the historic Dadaocheng district and the National Palace Museum.

Eskom Expo executive director Parthy Chetty praised the young scientists and those who supported them.

“We are extremely proud of Karabo and Yu-Yao, whose creativity, rigorous research, and determination showcased South Africa’s talent on the global stage,” he said.

“We applaud their mentors, families, and schools for nurturing curiosity and excellence. These achievements demonstrate that with the correct support and opportunity, young people in South Africa can solve real-world problems.”

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