Nairobi: As South Africa celebrates National Science Week (NSW) 2025 under the theme "Science, technology and innovation are for everyone," 19 outstanding first-year university students embarked on an inspiring scientific journey across Gauteng and the North West.
According to African Press Organization, the event was launched over the weekend by the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande. NSW emphasizes making science inclusive, accessible, and relevant to all South Africans. In line with this vision, the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) hosts its annual Brilliants Programme, showcasing the nation's brightest young minds in science, engineering, and medicine.
The NSTF Brilliants are top-performing Grade 12 learners selected based on exceptional results in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, in partnership with the Department of Basic Education. These students, two male and two female per province, are pursuing studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The 2024 cohort toured cutting-edge research and innovation facilities from 27 to 30 July, beginning at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) and concluding at North-West University (NWU) in Potchefstroom.
Several students were selected to represent South Africa internationally at the London International Youth Science Forum, a 15-day STEM summer camp at Imperial College London, including Fanelesibonge Amanda Ngema, Gugu Pioneer Rose Libambo, Takatso Obrey Sibanda, Jurie Johannes Blignaut, Andre De Boer, Lehlohonolo Mokhothu, and Kagiso Tele.
The four-day tour offered immersive experiences in South Africa's most advanced scientific environments. It began at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Agroprocessing Facility, where students explored technologies converting raw agricultural materials into food products. They also visited Aditiv Solutions, a metal 3D printing company, to witness high-performance additive manufacturing systems.
Day two involved Wits University's Tshimologong Digital Innovation Hub, an incubator for small businesses and tech startups. The students engaged with innovations in gaming, animation, and digital media. Other visits included the National Aerospace Centre and the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, concluding at the Evolutionary Studies Institute to explore South Africa's rich paleontological heritage.
Day three started with a sunrise game drive, followed by a visit to Jonker Sailplanes in Centurion, South Africa's premier manufacturer of high-performance gliders. Prof. Attie Jonker, co-founder and Director of the School of Mechanical Engineering at NWU, led a factory tour showcasing the engineering behind sailplanes.
The tour ended at the Hydrogen South Africa (HySA) Infrastructure Centre of Competence at NWU. Led by Prof. Dmitri Bessarabov, HySA is a flagship program positioning South Africa as a global player in hydrogen and fuel-cell technologies. Students learned about sustainable energy solutions and South Africa's role in the global hydrogen economy.
Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Ntsako Thato Ringane said: "Most of the places we visited are doing extraordinary and unique work. I've learned the importance of following one's passion and staying curious."
The NSTF Brilliants Programme not only celebrates academic excellence but also fosters a pipeline of future STEM professionals. By exposing high-achieving youth to real-world science and technology, the programme reinforces the message that science is for everyone, and that South Africa's future is being built by its brilliant young minds.