Limpopo Learner Takes South African Maths Innovation to Taiwan!

Photo Credit: Curro / Canva

Armed with an extraordinary gift for mathematics and the pride of Limpopo behind her, 17-year-old Karabo Mpuru is representing South Africa at the prestigious Taiwan International Science Fair.

Taipei, Taiwan (02 February 2026) – When Karabo Mpuru from Lebowakgomo in Limpopo overheard her physics teacher discussing science project ideas with another Grade 10 learner, her curiosity was sparked to do her own research, opening a door to a whole new world of limitless possibilities.

She recalls the defining moment when she approached her teacher shortly after the learner left, inquiring about the science ideas.

“That day, the physics homework I had was left abandoned as I started my research in search of innovation,” she says.

A driven and determined Karabo developed a research project titled, ‘Finding the constant difference in an Arithmetic sequence,’ which has proven that two newly developed formulas can find the common difference in any arithmetic sequence, whether even, odd, or any other type. The research offers practical benefits for learners, helping them save time during tests, improve problem-solving skills, and build stronger foundations in mathematics.

It’s so impressive that it has taken her from Lebowakgomo to Taiwan!

Karabo has earned an opportunity to represent South Africa by presenting her project at the Taiwan International Science Fair (TISF), which is currently taking place from 31 January to 7 February 2026. The talented high schooler is part of a national delegation led by the Eskom Expo Stellenbosch Regional Science Fair Director, alongside fellow young scientists.

Her curiosity, nurtured by the school’s supportive academic environment, has set her on a path to international recognition, a testament to how the school inspires learners to think beyond the curriculum and pursue their passions.

When asked what it took to achieve this milestone, the former Merdian Northern Academy learner said it required grit, resilience, determination, and a bold belief in what was possible.

While her current achievements lie in mathematics, Karabo’s intellectual curiosity extends beyond it.

“Recently I’ve developed an interest in neuroscience and how the brain works, integrating it with machine learning,” she explains.

Her academic interests have evolved from rocks to bones, fashion, and now biology – a flexibility that herschool environment actively encourages amongst its learners.

“My career aspirations change so frequently that I don’t want to limit myself to one career but keep my mind open to the possibility of other careers, even in the creative spaces,” she says.

Karabo encourages younger learners to stay resilient and authentic, even when faced with setbacks.

“Rejection is often just redirection,” she says.

As she prepares to represent South Africa in Taiwan, she carries with her the pride of her community and country, proof that with the right support and determination, young people can compete on the world stage.