The hum of conversation, the click of keyboards, and the whir of robotics filled Tsebonokeng Hall on 18 October 2025, as the North-West University's (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus hosted GeeXpo 2025 – an annual celebration of imagination, invention, and STEM excellence.

Hosted by the School of Computer Science and Information Systems in collaboration with the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, the event drew together high school learners, university students, educators, and industry professionals under one roof – literally. For the first time, all exhibitions, competitions, and activities took place inside Tsebonokeng Hall, creating a cohesive space where ideas could cross-pollinate.

"This year marked a milestone for GeeXpo," said Luke Coetzee, lecturer and event organiser at the School of Computer Science and Information Systems. "The unified venue gave the event a sense of continuity and community. You could move from a coding project to a robotics match without missing a beat."

Dr William van Blerk, senior lecturer and deputy director of the School of Computer Science and Information Systems, reflected on the broader significance of the event. "GeeXpo is more than just an exhibition and competition, it's a commitment from our staff and students to inspire the wider community. Each year, we invest our time, energy, and expertise because we believe in the transformative power of STEM education, especially when it's shared beyond the classroom."

Creativity and code – IT projects take centre stage

In the IT PAT Competition, high school learners from Grades 10 to 12 presented curriculum-based programming solutions, ranging from transportation management systems, smart school assistant apps, and educational tools to support learning and teaching. They didn't just meet curriculum standards, their solutions solved real problems and impressed the judges. Prizes and an NWU Young Eagles bursary added high stakes to the already charged atmosphere.

Meanwhile, computer science honours students showcased their research projects, covering topics form cybersecurity to AI ethics. These displays revealed technical mastery and a deep engagement with the pressing questions of our time.

Math in motion – olympiad sparks logical brilliance

The Mathematics Olympiad, led by the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, tested learners' ability to think critically and creatively under pressure. The contest featured junior and senior divisions, with questions designed to stretch even the sharpest minds.

In between, the Mathematics Game Hour brought laughter and learning together, showing that problem-solving can be both serious and fun.

"GeeXpo inspired countless young minds to pursue studies and careers in technology, mathematics, and science," said Daleen du Plessis, lecturer and deputy subject chair for Mathematics and Applied Mathematics. "It strengthened connections between education and industry, helping build a pipeline of skilled, passionate learners ready to shape South Africa's future."

Machines that learn – robotics showcase goes national

One of the day's most anticipated events, the National Robotics Scrummage, brought engineering to life. Led by Pieter Pretorius of Trophy Robotics in collaboration with FirstSA, the national scrummage featured student teams from across the country tackling real-time coding and design challenges.

Playful engagement – tech meets entertainment

Beyond the competitions, GeeXpo offered a playground of interactive experiences. Guests lined up for VR simulations, competed on custom-built arcade machines loaded with student-designed games, and shared their experience at the event's buzzing social media booth.

Now in its second decade, GeeXpo remains one of the Vanderbijlpark Campus’ standout events. With hundreds of participants and visitors in attendance, the 2025 edition showcased the power of STEM to solve problems, connect people, and shape futures.

"GeeXpo has never just been about technology," remarked Prof Estelle Taylor, director of the School of Computer Science and Information Systems. "It's about inspiring learners to see themselves as future creators, innovators, and problem-solvers. The energy and excitement we saw this year proved just how much potential exists among the next generation."

Reflecting on the event's ongoing impact, Luke added: "Each year, GeeXpo grows in scale and relevance. It's becoming a space where students showcase what they've learned while exploring where their ideas can take them next." 

Recognising innovation

Congratulations to the following winners:

· IT PAT competitions

Grade 10:

First place: Ricus Jansen van Vuuren from Potchefstroom Gimnasium

Second place: Largo Kok from Hoërskool Overvaal

Third place: Heinrich Fouche from Hoër Volkskool Potchefstroom

Judges' Choice: Karabo Kubyana from Hoërskool Jeugland

 Grade 11:

First place: André Schreuder from Hoërskool Jeugland

Second place: Hannes Hattingh from Pothefstroom Gimnasium

Third place: Marnu Senekal from Hoërskool Dr. Malan

Judges' Choice: Dintsi Tshepang from Dr Molefi Oliphant Secondary School of Specialisation

Grade 12:

First place: Gaiton Makousa from Potchefstroom Gimnasium

Second place: Sobane Nthabeleng from Dr Molephe Oliphant Secondary School of Specialisation

Third place: Charles Collen from Hoërskool Dr. Malan

Judges' Choice: Hanu Kruger from Hoërskool Dr. Malan

· Mathematics Olympiad

Senior:

First place: Llewellyn Labuschagne from Hoërskool Overvaal

Second place: Tineke Coetzee from Hoërskool Overvaal

Third place: Rossouw Nel from Potchefstroom Gimnasium

Junior:

First place: Liteboho Kolanchu from Curro Riverside High School

Second place: Tshiamo Moroka from Curro Riverside High School

Third place: Theophellas Kateera from Sanelich Academy

· Honours research projects

First place: Wandile Phinzi

Second place: Ivan Langa

Third place: Delila Chauke