Two up-and-coming young scientists from SA won awards at the 2024 Taiwan International Science Fair (TISF) after presenting their research projects to judges and colleagues at the National Taiwan Science Education Center in Taipei.
Johannes Jacobus (Jaco) Deysel, a Grade 11 student at Hoërskool Jim Fouché in the Bloemfontein region of the Free State, won the third award in the computer science and information engineering category. Meanwhile, Lesabo Molovi, a Grade 12 student at Zinyaville Secondary School in the Bojanala region of the North West, won the prestigious science fair's fourth prize and viewers' choice award in the Behavioral and Social Sciences category.
Deisel says, “Deciphering Caesar Cipher/Vigenère Cipher Encryption for Secure Data Communication”. The project aimed to identify cryptographic vulnerabilities and investigate factors that affect the strength of cryptographic systems by cracking both the Caesar and Vigenère ciphers. Deisel Reflecting on his accomplishments, he said: Being surrounded by some of the brightest minds of our generation was an experience that will stay with me forever. Additionally, I was exposed to so many unique cultures and I had the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful places while learning about the traditions, which greatly enriched my perspective in many ways.”
Deisel encouraged aspiring young scientists to stay curious. “You are allowed to disagree and to seek your own answers and solutions. Don't let others tell you you can't, because you can do it.” Don't worry about negative feedback because you are capable of more than what people tell you. Use them as a driving force,” he said.
Morobi exhibited a research project titled “.From human intelligence to artificial intelligence chatbots: modern writing” investigates whether it is easy to distinguish between artificial intelligence (AI)-generated text and human-generated text in school settings. Mr. Morobi said, “I am very happy about this award. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing your hard work rewarded. Participating in TISF was a great experience, as I interacted with many students from all over the world. , I learned a lot from the other participants, and also learned about different countries and their cultural practices. Being exposed to Taiwan's culture, language, and people was an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
Mr Molovi encouraged aspiring young scientists from local communities to be selective when choosing the project categories to participate in the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. She emphasized the importance of working on selected research projects and advocated continued effort and improvement.
Ms Mologadi Motshele, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, commended the pair for their achievements, saying: Competing and being recognized on a global stage among her 630 young scientists from 27 countries is a commendable feat. Her commitment to Eskom to invest in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI) through the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists is unwavering. Expos are a great way to support and develop the next generation of scientists and engineers, creating a solid foundation for our country's development and progress. ”
Eskom Expo Executive Director Parthy Chetty said: Expo Mentor His team spent a lot of time over the December break preparing these learners for tough competition, and their efforts paid off. These international competitions are more than just academic activities by exposing learners to different cultures, they are also the beginning of many friendships across continents. ”
Registration for Eskom Expo 2024 is now open. Learners in grades 4 to 12 and his NC2 to NC4 in TVET colleges can register their projects by visiting www.exposcience.co.za.
