Young KwaZulu-Natal innovator shines at Eskom Expo
November 2023
News
A young innovator from KwaZulu-Natal has won awards at the 43rd Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) for his research project, which uses renewable energy resources like solar and wind power as a backup power source for cell phone towers during loadshedding. John Hamilton, 12, from Khethani Christian School represented the KwaZulu-Natal Far North Region, where he was awarded the HJ van der Bijl Award presented by Teraco, which consisted of a R9000 cash prize.
“My project was inspired by seeing the negative impact on people’s lives in our community because of poor network coverage during loadshedding. Also, in summer after big storms, we often don’t have a network for many hours, sometimes even for days. I wanted to use renewable energy sources to solve an electricity problem we are experiencing,” said Hamilton, who was also awarded a Bronze medal for his research project.
“It was a very good experience to be part of the Eskom Expo ISF, and see many other interesting projects. Getting to know the kind people in my team was wonderful. The special awards evening was very nice and fun because the MC, Bunny Majaja made us feel so special. I was shocked to win as it was my first time participating at the ISF. I did not expect to receive such a huge award. I will never forget that moment,” he said. Hamilton enjoys building things with his hands using electrical parts or paper. While only in grade 6 currently, his dream is to become an electrical engineer or a maths teacher one day.
Eskom acting group executive, Natasha Sithole, said: “Being a steadfast supporter of the Eskom Expo, we were overjoyed to witness how it has evolved into a fertile ground for nurturing the aspirations of young scientists. Eskom firmly believes that investments in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI) act as the catalyst for uncovering enduring solutions to our nation’s pressing challenges. The ISF showcased youthful ingenuity, with learners exploring diverse topics ranging from behavioural studies to pioneering experiments, IT, machine learning, artificial intelligence applications, and the application of physics and mathematics.”
Eskom Expo executive director, Parthy Chetty said: “Learners like Hamilton hail from a rural part of our country that lacks the resources found in most major cities, but that did not deter him from thinking creatively and pursuing his ideas to create a prototype. The insight displayed by this learner goes beyond the school curriculum, as he had to do a lot of research on his own. This is the calibre of learners produced by the Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF), and it gives our country hope for a brighter future.”
For more information contact JeVanne Gibbs, +27 76 674 1455, jevanne @exposcience.co.za, www.exposcience.co.za
Further reading:
Empowering education and learning through innovation
Festo South Africa
News
Education stands as the cornerstone of progress in a world propelled by innovation and driven by the passion for learning. Recognising the pivotal role of learning institutions in shaping tomorrow’s leaders, Festo Didactic has launched the groundbreaking Fluid Power Blue Moon Special to revolutionise learning experiences in higher educational institutions, training centres, and Technical Vocational Education and Training colleges.
Read more...
Women engineers contribute to a culture of safety and innovation
ABB South Africa
News
International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) recently marked its 11th anniversary, with the theme of #EnhancedByEngineering. This annual event celebrates the contributions of women engineers worldwide, highlighting their role in enhancing lives and livelihoods through their work. Among these remarkable individuals, two talented engineers from ABB are building a brighter future for all of us.
Read more...
RS South Africa celebrates women in engineering
RS South Africa
News
International Women in Engineering Day, an annual event that celebrates the incredible contributions of women engineers worldwide, is marking its 11th anniversary under the theme of #EnhancedByEngineering.
Read more...
SEW-EURODRIVE to showcase drive innovation at Electra Mining
SEW-Eurodrive
News
SEW-EURODRIVE has expanded its presence at Electra Mining Africa this year with added exhibition space that showcases its innovations in automation and electronics. This complements the company’s large landmark stand, which has always been a favourite for visitors.
Read more...
Driving sustainable development through education and innovation
RS South Africa
News
RS South Africa is committed to nurturing the next generation of engineers, innovators and technologists, recognising them as the driving force behind sustainable development.
Read more...
The just energy transition starts at the Solar Youth Academy
News
Life Choices and GREEN Solar Academy are breaking ground with tangible results from their Solar Youth Academy. Their aim is to produce work-ready interns for the solar industry.
Read more...
Zutari coordinates MeerKAT radio telescope array
News
Leading consulting engineering and infrastructure advisory practice, Zutari is continuing its involvement with the world-leading MeerKAT radio telescope array, where it has played a leading role since the project first broke ground.
Read more...
Schneider Electric named the world’s most sustainable company
Schneider Electric South Africa
News
Schneider Electric has topped the list of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies for 2024 by Time magazine and Statista.
Read more...
WEG Africa Ghana marks 15 years of service
WEG Africa
News
WEG Africa’s Ghana operation has transformed into a fully-fledged branch. Through an expanded network of Value Added Resellers (VARs), the branch has boosted its capacity to deliver tailored and responsive solutions to a diverse customer base in West Africa.
Read more...
Connecting with stakeholders at Electra Mining Africa
News
Trafo Power Solutions is set to make a significant impact at this year’s Electra Mining Africa, and will use the platform to connect with stakeholders and reinforce its position as a leader in electrical power solutions.
Read more...
printer friendly version