News24 | Girl power on the global stage: Two SA pupils win bronze at science fair in Taiwan

Yu-Yao Chen and Karabo Mpuru won bronze at the Taiwan International Science Fair.

• Two SA pupils, Karabo Mpuru and Yu-Yao Chen, won third prizes at the Taiwan International Science Fair for their innovative STEM research.
• Mpuru simplified arithmetic sequences with new formulas, while Chen developed a seaweed-based bioink for improved wound healing.
• Their achievements at the fair highlight South Africa’s STEM talent and the importance of investing in science education.

Karabo Mpuru and Yu-Yao Chen are celebrating a remarkable achievement after both were awarded third prizes at the Taiwan International Science Fair (TISF) this month.

Mpuru, a former pupil at Northern Academy in Polokwane, and Chen, a Grade 11 pupil at Curro Durbanville High School in Cape Town, were recognised for their outstanding individual research projects.

The third prizes, equivalent to bronze medals in South Africa, mark a significant milestone for the young scientists.

The TISF is an annual event which brings together top high school pupils from over 30 countries to showcase their science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) projects.

South Africa takes part in this fair annually through the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. This is an opportunity for pupils to showcase their research to their peers from other countries, promoting both educational exchange and cross-cultural communication.

A total of 667 pupils and teachers from 32 countries around the world competed in this year’s fair.

Karabo Mpuru: Cracking the code of arithmetic sequences

Mpuru showcased her research project entitled “Finding the Constant Difference in an Arithmetic Sequence”.

Her research proved that the two formulas developed can be used to find the common difference in any arithmetic sequence. Furthermore, these formulas are reliable as they work for all sequence types and save students time in tests.

Expressing her excitement, Mpuru shared how the experience of competing abroad added to her joy.

“This has been a dream, and Taiwan has been like a dream. I’m still waking up, but I was thrilled when we received the results. My school played a crucial role in supporting my scientific journey through its teachers,” she said.

“I’m also grateful to the school administrators for providing us with the space and facilities to hold our meetings and conduct our science clubs. They always encouraged participation, allowed us to speak about the Science Expo at assembly, and motivated learners to get involved.”

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Mpuru’s mentor and mathematics teacher, Vuyelwa Sethene, says she is proud of her and how her research has made learning easier.

“Karabo has shown herself to be a creative scientist in the way she uses creativity to make learning easier for the average learner. Her research on arithmetic, where she provides an easy-to-grasp formula for arithmetic sequencing, further epitomises her creativity and how she views things differently.”

Yu-Yao Chen: Revolutionising wound healing with seaweed

Chen presented her research titled, “Using Macroalgae-Infused Bioink to Improve Oxygen Delivery in 3D-Bioprinted Wound Scaffolds”.

Eskom described Chen’s work as a groundbreaking contribution to medical science.

Reflecting on her achievement, Chen said her grandfather inspired her research idea.

“My grandfather served in the military and often struggled with wounds on his feet that didn’t heal properly because of low oxygen caused by long hours in heavy boots. Seeing this, I wondered if there was a simple, natural way to help wounds breathe and heal faster.

“That’s when the idea struck me: why not use living macro algae (very accessible) in 3D-printed materials to produce oxygen right at the wound site? It’s lightweight, low-cost, and could be life-changing in places without access to advanced medical equipment,” said Chen.

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She adds that she hopes her research can be incorporated into everyday life.

“I imagine a future where wound dressings aren’t just passive coverings, but living materials that actively help the body heal. With more development, these algae-based bioinks could become everyday medical tools, delivering oxygen directly to wounds in hospitals, clinics, or even remote areas – making fast, effective healing available to anyone, anywhere.”

Eskom Expo executive director, Parthy Chetty, praised the pupils for their exceptional achievements.

“We are extremely proud of Karabo and Yu-Yao, whose creativity, rigorous research, and determination showcased South Africa’s talent on the global stage,” said Chetty.

“We applaud their mentors, families, and schools for nurturing curiosity and excellence.”

Chetty also called for greater investment in STEM education to empower more learners to pursue scientific discovery and innovation.

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