Young scientist claims gold on global stage

Young scientist claims gold on global stage

31 March 2026

A young Western Cape scientist has made South Africa proud after earning top honours at the International Festival of Engineering Science and Technology in Tunisia (IFEST²), held from 23 to 29 March 2026.

Nicolaas Steenkamp, a Grade 11 learner from Hoërskool Stellenbosch, was awarded a gold medal for his innovative research project titled “Evaluating the impact of reinforcement strategies on learning efficiency and adaptability in Q-learning algorithms.”

Describing the achievement as both affirming and inspiring, Nicolaas said: “Winning an award at IFEST² was incredibly rewarding, as it shows that all the hard work that I invested into the project has paid off. It reassured me that what I was doing was interesting not just to me, but also meaningful to others.”

Western Cape Minister for Education, David Maynier, offered his congratulations to Nicolaas, saying: “This is an outstanding achievement for Nicolaas, his school, and his province in a field that is vital to our economy. He has set a great example for other learners in the Western Cape to follow, and we can’t wait to see what he will go on to achieve in this field in the future!”

South Africa’s success at the competition was further underscored by strong performances from fellow learners. Nathan Moolman, a Grade 11 learner from Leeuwenhof Akademie, received a silver medal, while Diya Zacaria, a Grade 11 learner from The High School for Girls Potchefstroom, earned a bronze medal.

The learners were selected to represent South Africa after excelling at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair (ISF) in October 2025. The IFEST² team travelled under the guidance of delegation leader Anina Nel, Eskom Expo Welkom Regional Science Fair Director.
Eskom Acting CEO Mologadi Motshele congratulated the learners, noting that their achievements highlight the importance of hands on scientific engagement and reflect a bright future for South Africa’s next generation of innovators.

The Eskom Expo’s District Expos will kick off across the country in April, creating opportunities for more Western Cape learners to explore scientific research and innovation. Learners in Grades 4 to 12 are encouraged to register their research projects by visiting www.exposcience.co.za.