Four young South African scientists won both gold and silver awards at the World Innovative Science Project Olympiad (WISPO), in Bali, Indonesia.
The event, organised annually by the Indonesia Scientific Society (ISS), was held from 10 to 13 December 2025.
Albertus Willem (Wium) van Niekerk, a Grade 10 learner at Paul Roos Gymnasium (Stellenbosch), won a gold medal and a prestigious grand award for his research project, titled “In vitro growth inhibition of Penicillium digitatum by lavender oil.”
It explored the potential of lavender essential oil as an eco‑friendly alternative to chemical fungicides in citrus production, offering promising solutions for sustainable postharvest disease management.
“I am very thankful for the awards I have received at WISPO. It is very gratifying to be recognised on an international stage for the hard work which I have put into my project over the last two years” said van Niekerk.
Ismaail (Miles) Hassen, a Grade 11 learner at Greenside High School (Johannesburg), also got a gold medal for his project, titled “Design and Evaluation of Walk‑Man: A Wearable Assistive Device for Enhanced Navigation in Individuals with Visual Impairment.”
Haasen said “winning is always rewarding, but what made the experience truly special was the honour of representing my country. Being surrounded by people from different cultures who all share a passion for science and innovation, and having the chance to learn alongside them, was invaluable.”
Milla Vorster, a Grade 11 learner at Curro Durbanville (Stellenbosch), earned a silver medal for her project, titled“the Organic Palette: Bioprinting Vascularized Organs.”
It highlighted key challenges in regenerative medicine through innovative 3D bioprinting techniques.
Dzunisa Chauke, a Grade 12 learner at Khanyisa Education Centre (Mopani), was also awarded a silver medal for his project, titled “Synthetic vs Non‑Synthetic Voices.”
It explored the detection of AI‑generated audio to address growing cybersecurity risks.
Parthy Chetty, Eskom Expo Executive Director, said “ huge congratulations to our top four young scientists, who represented South Africa with pride at the WISPO in Bali, Indonesia. Your innovative projects and dedication have made our country proud. Keep pushing boundaries and reaching for the stars! We’re beaming with pride, well done to our Eskom Expo champions.”
Registration to take part in Eskom Expo is open for learners in Grades 4–12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students NC(V) Level 2 to NC(V) Level.
Picture: Supplied