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A flicker of interest ignited by a book on astronomy led a young mind to delve into the mysteries of the universe, developing an appetite for understanding the complex workings of everything from subatomic particles to galaxies. This passion was nurtured and given a platform to shine at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists.
Malibongwe Yisa – Deputy Chairperson of the Ward 108 Development Forum in Mfuleni (60 Sec)
As Eskom celebrated its centennial of providing electricity in March 2023, a momentous milestone was revealed by Nthato Minyuku, Group Executive of Government and Regulatory Affairs at Eskom. Over 90% of South Africa is now electrified, illuminating over six million homes. This achievement firmly cements South Africa’s status as the leading electrified nation in Africa.
The transformative power of electricity is best encapsulated by the words of Malibongwe Yisa, Deputy Chairperson of the Ward 108 Development Forum in Mfuleni. Small businesses bloom, children can go to school, and lives are significantly improved due to this power supply. The electrification journey in South Africa isn’t just about lighting up homes, it’s about igniting opportunities and facilitating meaningful changes in people’s lives.
Nthato Minyuku, – Group Executive, Government and Regulatory Affairs, Eskom (60 Sec)
Nthato Minyuku, Group Executive of Government and Regulatory Affairs at Eskom, and Sumaya Nassiep, CEO of the Eskom Development Foundation, shed light on how Eskom is not only providing electricity but also igniting the nation’s potential by investing in its future generations. They emphasize the critical importance of building a diverse workforce of engineers, doctors, and scientists to foster South Africa’s growth.
Eskom, through initiatives such as the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, is preparing young minds for future challenges and opportunities. The Foundation’s strategic shift from philanthropy to Corporate Social Responsibility signifies Eskom’s commitment to shared value, focusing on developing businesses to help transition towards cleaner energy. It’s a testament to Eskom’s belief that every cent spent on development will create a ripple effect, benefitting the whole of South Africa.
Sumaya Nassiep – CEO, Eskom Development Foundation (60 Sec)
Eskom Development Foundation CEO, Sumaya Nassiep, explores the impact of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. Reaching over 100,000 participants a year across 35 regions, the Expo serves as a platform for young minds to showcase scientific and engineering innovations, particularly around the energy, water, food nexus, and novel energy solutions.
Participants like Yu Tang Shan, awarded Top Senior Scientist, and Yolanda Mnxati, winner of Best Innovation Special Project, find the expo instrumental in gaining preliminary knowledge and research skills which prove invaluable at the university level and beyond. The Expo encourages participants to push their limits, improve their research, and fine-tune their prototypes with guidance from mentors. The ultimate message? Anything these young talents dream of can transform South Africa and, indeed, the world. The sky’s the limit.
Hritik Mitha – Astrophysics student, University of Cape Town (60 Sec)
Hritik Mitha, an Astrophysics student at the University of Cape Town, shares his journey of exploring the universe – from subatomic particles to the largest of galaxies. His journey into astronomy began at the tender age of five, when his mother introduced him to a book brimming with images of planets, comets, and asteroids. His fascination grew, leading him to study both astronomy and physics for a comprehensive understanding of the universe.
Throughout high school, Hritik participated in the Expo for Young Scientists, where he was encouraged to push his limits in research and prototype development under the guidance of mentors and science directors. He believes in advancing science and technology to tackle pressing issues such as climate change and social injustice. For him, leveraging our understanding of science, technology, and engineering is key to creating a more sustainable future for all.
Corporate Overview
A flicker of interest ignited by a book on astronomy led a young mind to delve into the mysteries of the universe, developing an appetite for understanding the complex workings of everything from subatomic particles to galaxies. This passion was nurtured and given a platform to shine at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists.
Now in its 42nd year, the Eskom Expo has been a beacon of scientific inspiration for South Africa’s youth. Each year, over 100,000 students from 35 regions are electrified by the possibilities of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The expo acts as a launchpad, giving curious minds the boost they need to reach for the stars and fuel the country’s future with innovation and intellectual prowess.
Yet, the Eskom Expo is only one facet of Eskom’s work. Beyond the glittering spectacle of the science fair, Eskom has been a key player in illuminating communities across South Africa. In 1991, only 34% of the country had access to electricity. Fast forward to the present, and the figure stands at a remarkable 90%, with over six million homes powered, making South Africa the leading electrified country in Africa.
The transformative power of electricity is most evident in communities like Mfuleni. In a world empowered by electricity, local entrepreneurs have seen their dreams take shape. For a vetkoek seller, electricity enables her to cook and warm food for her customers. For a beauty salon owner, electricity powers the appliances she needs to enhance the beauty of her clients.
The Eskom Expo for Young Scientists and the electrification efforts are a testament to Eskom’s commitment to the country’s growth. By providing platforms for young minds to flourish and by electrifying communities, Eskom is not just lighting homes and streets but also the path to a prosperous, sustainable future. Through science and electricity, Eskom is powering dreams, ambitions, and a thriving nation.
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