The 44th Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) kicked off with a range of exciting activities, including robotics and coding workshops, and captivating science shows.
Held from 23 to 27 September 2024 at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Kempton Park, the ISF brought together 308 young scientists from South Africa and 18 international participants from countries like Lesotho, India, Russia, and Mexico.
Grade 11 and 12 learners explored the Origins Centre at the University of Witwatersrand, experiencing Africa’s rich heritage through rock art, fossils, and ancient tools. Meanwhile, junior learners toured the Johannesburg Zoo, going behind the scenes to see how the animals are fed and cared for.
Participants also visited the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre and Museum Africa, where they engaged with exhibits on science, technology, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution before presenting their research projects. The young scientists addressed topics relevant to personal and societal challenges, aiming to create impactful solutions for their schools and communities.
Through its Research, Testing, and Development (RT&D) initiative, Eskom is replacing traditional cement with recycled coal ash, using about 2,904 tonnes of ash per kilometer of road. This reduces carbon emissions since less cement is used, with every tonne of avoided cement leading to lower carbon dioxide (CO2) output.
Eskom’s Research Division has developed geopolymer concrete, made from coal ash, as a sustainable alternative to traditional cement. This technology is being applied to the Kusile West Access Road, contributing to sustainable infrastructure development.
