Stellenbosch pupil to represent SA at international science competition
Albertus Willem van Niekerk, a Grade 10 pupil at Paul Roos Gymnasium, has been selected as one of only four South African pupils who will represent the country at the World Innovative Science Project Olympiad in Bali, Indonesia.
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A Grade 10 pupil from Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch, Albertus Willem van Niekerk, has been selected as one of only four South African pupils who will represent the country at the World Innovative Science Project Olympiad (WISPO) in Bali, Indonesia, from December 10–13, 2025.
WISPO is an annual international science fair hosted by the Indonesia Scientific Society, bringing together young scientists from across the globe to showcase cutting-edge research and innovative science projects.
Albertus secured his spot after winning a gold medal at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists International Science Fair last year, followed by a silver medal this year.
He will present his research project titled: Evaluation of lavender oil for managing Penicillium digitatum on citrus.
For the project, he conducted several tests, both cultivating Penicillium digitatum on a growth medium amended with lavender oil and dipping fruit inoculated with the fungus into solutions containing the oil. He found that the oil performs the best at high concentrations, especially at a concentration of 3200 ppm.
Albertus said he was honoured to be selected for the international competition.
"I am very excited (about) the idea of attending the WISPO in Bali. It is a very big honour for me to be able to represent my country on an international stage, and it is very rewarding to be recognised for the great amount of work that has gone into perfecting my project," he said.
His mentor, who is also the Head of Department of Physical Sciences, Luize Kroukamp, praised his scientific maturity.
"Wium has built on his research from last year and performed new and exciting experiments that have real-world applications for the citrus supply chain. His exceptional knowledge of all aspects of his project is highly commendable," she said.
The South African delegation to Bali will be led by Jane Wasonga, the Eskom Expo Johannesburg Regional Science Fair Director.
Eskom Expo executive director, Parthy Chetty, said the group’s selection was an indication of the country’s young scientific talent.
“South Africa proudly sends four exceptional learners to the International Science Fair in Indonesia. Their achievement reflects strong mentorship, community support, and the power of science education to transform lives,” he said.