The four young South African scientists previously published on Mapepeza have returned with top honours from the World Innovative Science Project Olympiad (WISPO), held in Bali, Indonesia.
Organised annually by the Indonesia Scientific Society (ISS), WISPO, held from 10 to 13 December 2025, brought together young scientists from around the world to showcase innovative research and encourage international collaboration.
Albertus Willem (Wium) van Niekerk, a Grade 10 learner at Paul Roos Gymnasium (Stellenbosch), achieved exceptional success by winning both a Gold Medal and a prestigious Grand Award for his research project, “In vitro growth inhibition of Penicillium digitatum by lavender oil.” His project 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. The highlights of my trips were certainly the tour of Bali and the networking that took place on the day of judging. I was truly in awe of the great beauty of the island, and the sight of modern buildings standing next to what looked like ancient ruins was unique and breathtaking. It was also a great privilege, and very enjoyable, to be able to connect and interact with like-minded people from all over the world. It was also great fun exchanging trinkets with the other participants,” he said.
Ismaail (Miles) Hassen, a Grade 11 learner at Greenside High School (Johannesburg), was awarded a Gold Medal for his project, “Design and Evaluation of Walk‑Man: A Wearable Assistive Device for Enhanced Navigation in Individuals with Visual Impairment.” Reflecting on his achievement, Miles 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, “The Organic Palette: Bioprinting Vascularized Organs,” which addresses key challenges in regenerative medicine through innovative 3D bioprinting techniques. She said: “I feel really happy to have won a Silver medal for my project and I am very grateful. The highlights of my trip were touring Tanah Lot, a beautiful island temple, meeting the other learners and singing and dancing together on the beach.”
Dzunisa Chauke, a Grade 12 learner at Khanyisa Education Centre (Mopani), was awarded a Silver Medal for his project, “Synthetic vs Non‑Synthetic Voices,” which focuses on detecting AI‑generated audio to address growing cybersecurity risks. Chauke said: “Winning an award at WISPO makes me feel very proud of myself, especially because it took place on an international stage. I feel honoured and grateful, because the experience showed me that hard work and consistency really do pay off.”
He added that the cultural exposure in Bali left a lasting impression: “The people were very open and welcoming, which made the experience even more enjoyable. I learnt that people can be very different depending on where they come from, and that understanding these differences allows us to appreciate others more deeply.”
The four learners, all Gold medal winners at the Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF), travelled under the guidance of delegation leader Jane Wasonga, Eskom Expo Johannesburg Regional Science Fair Director.
Their success at WISPO not only highlights South Africa’s growing strength in science and innovation, but also reflects the dedication, resilience and global outlook of its young researchers.
Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty said: “What an achievement! 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. School learners in Grades 4–12 and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students NC(V) Level 2 to NC(V) Level 4 can register their research projects by visiting their website.
