The young scientists from South Africa made an impressive showing at this year’s International Science Technology Engineering Competition (ISTEC) in Bali, Indonesia. Among them, Husna Docrat from St Dominics Newcastle stood out, dominating the event.
The fifth edition of ISTEC was designed to nurture research and innovation in Indonesia by offering a platform where participants could explore their interests in science, technology, and engineering.
Husna Docrat, a Grade 11 student at St Dominics Newcastle, secured both a Gold medal and a Grand Award certificate for her project, “Exploring the feasibility of bioplastics as alternatives to conventional Plastics.” Recognising the environmental hazards posed by conventional plastics, which take approximately 20 years to decompose, Docrat worked on developing sustainable bioplastic solutions.
To read more about Husna Docrat’s project, click here.
Reflecting on her win, Husna said, “I am very grateful to be given the opportunity by Eskom Expo for Young Scientists and all my mentors that have taken the time to help and encourage me and made it possible for me to be here. I am overwhelmed with excitement at the fact that I have won a gold medal and a Grand Award. It has been a dream of mine, and I am so glad that I could accomplish it. It wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my parents, siblings, and family members.”
She further pointed out that a highlight of the trip was meeting and interacting with individuals from across the world, all of whom were extremely friendly and welcoming. And of course, she added that the main highlight was winning the awards to bring home to South Africa.
Other notable achievers include Rikyle Andrio Jordaan from Paterson High School in Gqeberha, S’qiniseko Mpilenhle Mpontshane from Mandla Mthethwa School of Excellence in Ndumu, KwaZulu-Natal, and Isabel Lutz from Bloemhof Hoër Meisieskool in Stellenbosch, who all secured Silver medals at ISTEC.
Commenting on the International Science Technology Engineering Competition, Mologadi Motshele, the Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation (Acting), said, “Congratulations to the remarkable young scientists whose individual work was recognised internationally to receive the awards and medals at the ISTEC in Bali, Indonesia. Indeed, their outstanding achievements not only showcase individual brilliance, but also underscore the collective potential of the South Africa youth in driving innovation and excellence.”
She added that the research projects undertaken by these youngsters are not merely academic pursuits, but hold significant promise in addressing real-world challenges faced by our nation. Furthermore, she noted that the dedication of the young scientists to advance knowledge and find practical solutions reflects a commitment to shaping a brighter future for South Africa and beyond.
Additionally, Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty said, “It is very exciting to see our learners competing with some of the best in the world and excelling. These learners come from all parts of the country, and it is promising to see that our long-term STEMI initiatives are bearing fruit across all nine provinces and across all school types irrespective of their location. It is equally pleasing to note that these learners use the expertise of various people in a mentorship role in addition to the support from their teachers.”
As the International Science Technology Engineering Competition (ISTEC) in Bali, Indonesia, has now come to an end with Husna Docrat bringing a sense of pride to both Newcastle and South Africa, let’s be sure to congratulate her in true Newcastillian fashion by leaving a message in the comment sections.
