The journey of two South African students passionate about science and awarded at I-FEST², the International Festival of Engineering, Science and Technology, in March 2025.
Hamzah Ismail and Vibhav Ramdas, 12th-grade students from St Dominics Newcastle School in South Africa, made their mark at the International Festival of Engineering, Science and Technology (I-FEST²) in March 2025. I-FEST² is a global event that brings together young scientists passionate about science from around the world to present their research projects in engineering, science, and technology.
Hamzah won a bronze medal for his project on fire-resistant eco-friendly bricks, an innovative solution for sustainable construction. Vibhav, on the other hand, presented a computer science project using object detection to improve road maintenance, earning an Honourable Award. Their journey began at the Eskom Science Expo, where their research was recognized, earning them the opportunity to participate in I-FEST².
I-FEST² brings together young researchers from different countries to share ideas and projects, providing a space for discovery and exchange. For Hamzah and Vibhav, this experience served as a stepping stone for their scientific future while allowing them to enjoy unforgettable cultural exchanges.
