Could mathematics help prevent the spread of infectious diseases through municipal water systems? For Grade 9 learner Brandon Mashandudze from Curro Mahikeng, that question led to a research project involving advanced mathematical modelling and 10 000 computer simulations.

Brandon investigated how pathogens might spread through water networks and where targeted interventions could have the greatest effect. Using mathematical models that account for unpredictable changes in disease transmission, he identified locations where interventions could potentially reduce pathogen levels before an outbreak is detected.

His simulations produced a striking result. Strategically targeted measures reduced peak pathogen loads by 94.3% compared with distributing the same resources uniformly. These findings remain computational, with real-world testing still needed to establish their practical effectiveness.

The research earned Brandon a bronze medal at the 2026 Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF), placing him among a group of Curro learners recognised for projects addressing challenges in healthcare, energy, engineering and environmental sustainability.

From thousands of projects to the international stage

The 46th Eskom Expo ISF, held at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg from 29 September to 2 October 2026, brought together 316 South African young scientists selected from 35 regions across all nine provinces. Another 24 international participants joined the event, either in person or virtually.

Reaching this stage involved a substantial selection process. Earlier in 2026, learners presented 13 882 projects at 287 district expos across South Africa, with qualifying projects progressing through regional science fairs.

At the 2026 ISF, finalists presented and defended their research before judges across 13 scientific categories. They also interacted with university representatives, industry professionals and fellow young scientists, gaining exposure to potential careers in science, technology and engineering.

At least 14 learners from Curro schools received recognition, collectively earning three silver medals, five bronze medals and six Highly Commended certificates. Several also received bursaries and special awards.

Water from the air and an award-winning school project

Among them was Grade 11 learner Thapelo Shawa from The King's School Linbro Park, whose project explored whether an affordable, portable device could extract water from the atmosphere for off-grid communities.

His Mora Aero prototype uses silica gel to absorb atmospheric moisture and solar heat to release the trapped water vapour. Although the prototype fell short of its daily water-production target, testing demonstrated that the system could capture and condense moisture.

Thapelo received a silver medal and a R40 000 bursary from the University of the Witwatersrand's Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment.

At Curro Westbrook, Grade 9 learner Layla Ahmed turned a school assignment into a project that earned multiple honours at the 2026 ISF.

Layla received a silver medal, was named Top Junior in Computer Sciences and earned two special awards. These included an FFS Refiners Award, which came with an iPad, and an RS GROUP Award worth R10 000 in the form of a voucher.