Western Cape learners fly the South African flag in Turkey

Statement by Minister David Maynier, Minister of Education Western Cape

Two Western Cape learners have been selected to represent South Africa at the 2024 Izmir International Innovation Science Energy Engineering Fair (IISEEF) in Turkey.

Thiedu Du Preez, from Vredenburg High School in the West Coast Education District, and Aadil Dawood, from Bishops Diocesan College in the Metro Central Education District, will present their projects at the IISEEF between 30 November and 3 December 2024.

The IISEEF gives learners the opportunity to present projects in various scientific categories, such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Energy and Engineering, and Mathematics and Computer Science. These fields are of critical importance to the South African, and Western Cape, economies.

Thiedu’s project, titled ‘Seal to Heal: Economical natural alternatives for wound healing’, looks at the use of natural products for sealing wounds and providing protection from infections. This could offer an alternative to the chemical solutions currently in use.

Ahead of the conference, Thiedu says: “After four years of preparation, I am excited to get the opportunity to represent my school, my town, and my country. Being able to share my project internationally is a privilege I am so grateful for. I'm super excited to travel to Turkey and experience a new world.”

Aadil will present his project titled ‘Spectro-metrical analysis of urinary metabolic by-products forming as a result of exercise’, which analyses the impact of exercise on the human body at the molecular level. This has the potential to use non-invasive urine metabolite monitoring to assess an athlete’s physiology.

Aadil says: “I'm excited to participate in IISEEF in Turkey, where I'll have the chance to connect with peers from all over the world, share ideas, and immerse myself in a new culture. I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity, as it's an amazing experience that exposes me to fresh perspectives and fuels my drive to contribute meaningfully to science.”

This is an outstanding achievement for our learners, and we have no doubt that they will find the event to be a valuable and fulfilling experience. We wish them the very best for their presentations, and safe travels!

Media Enquiries:
Kerry Mauchline
Spokesperson to Minister David Maynier
Western Cape Ministry of Education
Kerry.Mauchline@westerncape.gov.za