Young South African scientists excel at international STEM competition in India
Nkanteko Moyane and Jivesh Ramnath were awarded gold and silver medals, respectively, at the Initiative for Research and Innovation in STEM (IRIS) Global Symposium, held last week in India.
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BUDDING South African scientists returned home with gold and silver medals from the Initiative for Research and Innovation in STEM (IRIS) Global Symposium, held last week in India.
The esteemed event showcased the innovative research of young minds tackling pressing global challenges, particularly in the fields of environmental sustainability and assistive technology.
Silver medal winner, Jivesh Ramnath, 18, from Hoërskool Richardsbaai in Richards Bay, was awarded for his research project, “JØ7 Vireo: Development of a low-cost AI-powered navigation device for the blind and visually impaired”, which enables blind and visually impaired persons to perceive their environment through real time object identification and distance awareness.
“Winning a silver medal at the IRIS Global Symposium in the computer science category felt exhilarating. It was completely unexpected. My hard work paid off, as the category was extremely competitive, featuring numerous sophisticated projects.
"The judging was also very rigorous and stressful. A highlight of the trip to India was learning about the country’s history and the wonders it holds. The level of technology was mind-boggling, especially among the youth. Meeting so many brilliant minds truly made the trip worthwhile,” said Ramnath.
Notable participant and gold award winner, Nkanteko Moyane, 15, from Daleview Secondary School in Gauteng for his research project, “ECOHARVEST: Integrated phytoremediation for contaminated soil and mining wastewater,” which showed that phytoremediation works.
“Winning an award at IRIS Global Symposium felt great because it shows that my hard work and dedication have been recognised on such a big international platform. 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 brings you a step closer to success. With hard work, dedication, and persistence, you can achieve more than you can imagine,” said Moyane.
Additionally, participants Melokuhle Khuzwayo and Simesihle Khuzwayo, both 17, from King Bhekuzulu High School in Nongoma in northern KwaZulu-Natal were awarded participation awards for their research project, “Double Trouble, Double Solution: Neutralising acids and plastics with nature’s help.”
“It was exciting and encouraging to be recognised at the IRIS Global Symposium. Being part of the team was a valuable experience, and it was rewarding to see our hard work and preparation pay off.
"The main highlight of our trip to India was visiting the Taj Mahal. It was an incredible experience because of its cultural and historical importance, as well as its impressive architecture. We learned that there are many similarities between Indian culture and some African cultures, which was fascinating because it shows how connected everyone is at the end of the day,” they said.
Parthy Chetty, Eskom Expo executive director, congratulated the learners on their outstanding achievements.
"Their success reflects the exceptional talent, dedication, and innovation that South Africa nurtures. Eskom Expo is proud to have supported these young scientists, as investing in their growth strengthens our country’s future by cultivating leaders who will drive technological advancement, sustainability, and positive social impact.
"Their achievements stand as an inspiration to learners across South Africa, to participate in the Eskom Expo and to explore the boundless opportunities in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation(STEMI),” said Chetty.