Inspiring Young Minds: The 2024 Eskom Cape Town Expo for Young Scientists

The 2024 Eskom Cape Town Expo for Young Scientists showcased remarkable talent at the UCT Sports Centre on 14th and 15th of August. The UCT Chemistry Department had an exhibition table at the event. 

Dr Dalielah Jappie led the department’s participation with engaging experiments. She was joined by Claire Lawrence Naidoo and Laa-iqa Rylands, who enjoyed interacting with the students and sparking their interest in science. 

The projects presented by the students were impressive and featured a diverse array of innovative ideas. The Chemistry Department sponsored four prizes for projects featuring some sort of green chemistry aspect. The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) were also 
prize sponsors. Retired staff members Assoc. Prof. David Gammon and Assoc. Prof. Alan Hutton were present, representing the RSC and judging the projects. Dr Cesarina Edmonds-Smith and Dr Sophie Reese-Jones from the Chemistry Department also served as judges, evaluating the impressive array of student projects with keen eyes and encouraging feedback. 

The expo highlighted the excitement and creativity of young scientists. The UCT Chemistry Department’s involvement showcased their commitment to nurturing future scientific talent. The event was a reminder of the vibrant community supporting the next generation of innovators.