A Grade 10 science pupil at Seabe High School near Marapyane, in Mpumalanga, sees everything as a great scientific challenge.

"I love science. Everything I touch and see has a scientific effect," says Keletso Lebese.

Keletso, 15, was named regional winner of the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists competition this year. She went through to the provincial level where she took second place.

"I was a bit disappointed that I did not win this time. Last year I went through to the national level. But I am not giving up.

"Next year I will go to the nationals. I want to see myself in the international competition."

The Eskom Expo is a science fair where pupils showcase their scientific projects.

Keletso invented a "power off, hydro lights on system" - a back-up solution if the electricity supply fails to deliver.

Keletso is the only pupil from Grade 10 who entered the school's science project competition, headed by University of Cape Town chemistry student Peter Malatji.

"I hope more pupils study science, it's a beautiful subject, " she says.

Keletso says she is grateful for the work that Malatji, a former pupil at the school, is doing.

"He uses his own cash to buy us science equipment. He motivates us."

Keletso wants to study forensic science after completing Matric.

- mashabas@sowetan.co.za