After winning the Imbewu Science Fair and placing at the national level, Johan Vorster and Gustav Heesen are set to represent South Africa at the GENIUS Olympiad in the United States.
Pretoria, South Africa (28 April 2026) – Two Gauteng learners are preparing to take their science project from the classroom to the global stage.
Now in Grade 8, Johan Vorster (Pretoria Boys High School) and Gustav Heesen (Afrikaans Hoër Seunskool) first made headlines last year while still in Grade 7. Competing at the Imbewu Science Fair, they were named overall winners. The result that stood out was not because they achieved it against older learners across multiple grades.
At the centre of their project was using artificial intelligence to support teachers in overcrowded classrooms. It was a solution shaped by real challenges in South African schools, and one that showed both technical skill and a clear understanding of everyday learning environments.
Their progress did not stop there. Earlier this year, the pair competed at the South African Youth Environmental and Science Symposium, where they finished as second runners-up nationally.
That performance has now opened the door to an even bigger opportunity. Johan and Gustav have been selected to represent South Africa at the GENIUS Olympiad, set to take place in Rochester in June.
The event brings together young scientists from around the world, offering a platform to present ideas, exchange knowledge and engage with global peers. The cost of international travel, accommodation, registration and related expenses is substantial, particularly as a chaperone is required to accompany them.
A fundraising campaign is now under way to help cover these costs and ensure the pair can take up the opportunity to represent South Africa on the international stage. Contributions will go towards flights, competition fees, visas, insurance and transport during the event.
For Johan and Gustav, the focus remains on the work itself with the hope that this next step will open even more doors.
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To help these two learners, you can donate by following the link here.
Sources: Supplied
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