Local young scientists shine at IRIS Global Symposium in India

In a remarkable display of talent and innovation, local young scientists have earned prestigious Gold and Silver medals at the Initiative for Research and Innovation in STEM (IRIS) Global Symposium, held from January 27 to 31 in New Delhi, India. This event showcased 77 budding scientists who represented 17 states and 23 cities, collectively presenting 58 groundbreaking projects aimed at addressing real-world challenges.

Among the distinguished medal winners was 15-year-old Nkanteko Moyane from Daleview Secondary School in Gauteng. Moyane garnered a gold medal for his ambitious project titled “ECOHARVEST: Integrated Phytoremediation for contaminated soil and mining wastewater.” His research demonstrated that phytoremediation — a process that uses plants to remove or neutralise contaminants — can effectively restore polluted environments.

“Winning an award at the IRIS Global Symposium felt great because it shows that my hard work and dedication have been recognised on such a big international platform,” Moyane said. “I am proud to represent my country and grateful to everyone who supported me along the way, especially Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. I would like to encourage aspiring young scientists to believe in themselves and their ideas. Every ‘failed’ experiment is a step closer to getting it right. With hard work, dedication, and persistence, you can achieve more than you can imagine.”

Another star at this prestigious event was 18-year-old Jivesh Ramnath from Hoërskool Richardsbaai in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, who earned a silver medal for his innovative project “JØ7 Vireo: Development of a low-cost AI-powered navigation device for the blind and visually impaired.” This device allows visually impaired users to navigate their surroundings through real-time object identification and distance awareness.

“Winning a silver medal in the computer science category felt exhilarating,” Ramnath said. “It was completely unexpected, especially considering the rigorous judging process and the fierce competition. A highlight of the trip to India was learning about the country’s history and its technological advancements, which were mind-boggling. Meeting so many brilliant minds made the entire experience worthwhile.”

Additionally, 17-year-olds Melokuhle and Simesihle Khuzwayo from King Bhekuzulu High School in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, received Participation Awards for their collaborative project “Double Trouble, Double Solution: Neutralising acids and plastics with nature’s help.”

“It was exciting to be recognised at the IRIS Global Symposium,” the Khuzwayo twins remarked. “Being part of the team was a valuable experience, and it was rewarding to see our hard work pay off. The highlight of our trip was visiting the Taj Mahal, where we learned of the cultural and historical connections between Indian and African cultures.”

The IRIS Global Symposium serves as a prestigious platform that encourages young scientists to tackle pressing issues related to environmental sustainability and assistive technologies. Eskom Expo for Young Scientists executive director Parthy Chetty commended the achievements of the participants, stating, “Their success reflects the exceptional talent, dedication, and innovation that South Africa nurtures. Eskom Expo is proud to support these young scientists as investing in their growth strengthens our country’s future.”

For those inspired by these young innovators, registration for the Eskom Expo is currently open. Pupils in Grades 4–12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges are encouraged to submit their research projects by visiting www.exposcience.co.za.

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