# A Gauteng grade eleven learner has taken top honours at the 2026 Eskom Expo International Science Fair. Rudra Patel, from UJ Academy Maths, Science and ICT School of Specialisation, won the Top Senior Scientist Award and a 75-thousand-rand prize for research into using plant extracts to improve wheat growth. Free State grade eight learner Denica Swartz won the Top Junior Scientist Award, while Mpumalanga learner Tshepisho Vuyo Nkosi received the Best Development School Award. The fair also awarded 25 gold, 100 silver and 111 bronze medals.
Gauteng learner wins top senior scientist award at Eskom Expo