Karabo Mpuru and Yu-Yao Chen gain international recognition at Taiwan Science Fair
11 February 2026Original research from two learners reached a global audience when Karabo Mpuru and Yu-Yao Chen represented the country at the Taiwan International Science Fair (TISF) in Taipei, returning with international recognition for their work.
The fair, hosted at the National Taiwan Science Education Center, brought together 667 learners and teachers from 32 countries. South Africa participated through the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, which supports leading school researchers to present their work on an international stage.
Third prize for mathematics research
Karabo Mpuru, a former learner at Meridian Northern Academy in Lebowakgomo, received a third prize, equivalent to a Bronze medal, for her individual research project. She attended the fair as one of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists winners and travelled as part of a national delegation led by the Eskom Expo Stellenbosch Regional Science Fair Director.
Karabo presented ‘Finding the constant difference in an Arithmetic sequence’. Her research developed two formulas that determine the common difference in any arithmetic sequence, including even and odd sequences. The work offers direct classroom value, supporting faster problem-solving in tests and strengthening conceptual understanding in mathematics.
Karabo said upon reflection that the award affirms the effort behind her project. She also highlighted the wider programme, which included cultural exchanges and visits to sites across Taiwan, as an important part of the experience.
Biomedical research with medical relevance
Yu-Yao Chen, a Grade 11 learner at Curro Durbanville High School, also presented her research at TISF after being selected through the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. Her project, ‘Using Macroalgae-Infused Bioink to Improve Oxygen Delivery in 3D-Bioprinted Wound Scaffolds’, explored whether living macroalgae can survive inside a 3D-printed scaffold and continue producing oxygen when exposed to light.
Oxygen plays a critical role in wound healing, and Yu-Yao’s findings suggest that this approach could support healing in a more energy-efficient way. Her work combined biomedical science with advanced 3D printing techniques to address a practical healthcare challenge.
The school said: ‘Curro Durbanville High School is extremely proud to congratulate Yu-Yao Chen, a Grade 11 learner, who represented South Africa at the Taiwan International Science Fair.’
From classroom curiosity to global stage
Karabo traced the start of her research journey back to Grade 10 at Meridian Northern Academy. ‘When the learner left, I asked him about it. That day, the physics homework I had was left abandoned as I started my research in search of innovation,’ she said.
Her academic interests continue to evolve. ‘Recently I’ve developed an interest in neuroscience and how the brain works, integrating it with machine learning,’ she explained, adding that her interests have ranged from geology to biology and creative fields. ‘I don’t want to limit myself to one career,’ she said, before concluding, ‘Rejection is often just redirection.’
At TISF, both learners presented their work alongside peers from around the world, contributing to discussions on science, innovation and applied research.
