A Grade 10 learner from Paul Roos Gymnasium is among a group of young brilliant minds that will showcase their scientific prowess on the global stage.
Matthew Crouch will be showcasing his groundbreaking research project at the prestigious Indonesia International Science Technology and Engineering Competition (Istec) in Bali.
The Istec, a student research competition that seeks to identify innovative solutions to global problems, will take place from 11 to 14 May.
Matthew said he was excited and grateful for the opportunity to represent not only his school but South Africa on the world stage.
“Thank you to the school, and [rector] Mr [André] van Staden, for creating these opportunities for us,” he said, “and to Mr van Zyl and Miss van Rooyen for inspiring me and helping me along my journey. To my parents thank you for the support.”
Matthew’s research project, “The Use of UV Light to Delay Ripening and Prevent Decay of Plums,” explores how ultraviolet-C (UV-C) treatment can extend the shelf-life of fruits and vegetables.
He explained it at a farewell ceremony at PRG on Friday 5 May. “With food wastage a major problem in South Africa my project sought to delay the ripening process using this treatment, and we found that plums exposed to UV-C light had smaller pathogen growth and less fruit ripening at room temperature.”
Matthew’s research is particularly noteworthy because most studies done on the delayed ripening of fruits and vegetables look at more common produce like tomatoes, while his research was done on yellow plums. His findings represent a significant contribution to the field and may have important implications for the agricultural industry.
This young science boffin won the opportunity to present his research on this much wider platform by competing in the Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) in December last year along with a group of exceptional young scientists from across South Africa.
The Eskom Expo is a platform for learners from Grade 4 to 12 as well as learners at TVET colleges studying NC2 to NC4 to showcase their scientific aptitude and innovation.
Sumaya Nassiep, Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, expressed her excitement for Matthew and other young scientists representing South Africa at the Istec.
She encouraged the learners to take the opportunity to learn from international judges and incorporate the feedback received into enhancing their research projects.
“Eskom recognises the pivotal role of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (Stemi) in South Africa’s development and urges the active participation of young people in these fields,” Nassiep said.
“By fostering a pipeline of skilled and enthusiastic scientists and innovators through the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, the organisation hopes to forge a brighter and more promising future for South Africa.”
