TWO Zimbabwean students won awards at this year’s Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), which was held in Ohio, United States, from May 10 to 16.
The two are Thomas Machingaidze (17) of St George’s College and Gigi Dara Nyambirai (18) of Peterhouse Girls School. The were part of scholars who gathered for the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair – the world’s largest international STEM research competition for high school students. This year, the fair was celebrating ISEF’s 75th anniversary.
More than 1 700 students representing 70 countries participated in this year’s ISEF, widely seen as the largest global platform for research and innovation projects by students.
In April last year, Thomas made history when he became the first Zimbabwean to be accepted for a degree programme at the International Institute of Astronautical Sciences in Florida where he will train as an astronaut.
Thomas has achieved the added distinction of receiving the Cambridge International Exams award for number one in computer science for the second year running. This is despite writing the exams 18 months ahead of schedule.
Thomas’s computer science teacher Tawanda Nyahwa said he had consistently excelled in Computer Science, demonstrating exceptional analytical skills and great problem-solving and programming prowess.
“His natural understanding of concepts set him apart from his peers even from as far back as in Form 2 when he started the IGCSE Computer Science syllabus – and picking up As even up to A Level.
“His humility and eagerness to learn highlighted his character and gift. Thomas’ dedication and teachable spirit must inspire those around him because nothing must ever stop anyone if they believe they can do it. He is a remarkable student and person,” said Nyahwa.
The two outstanding Zimbabwean students – Thomas and Gigi won US$400 each and full scholarships from King Fahd University in Saudi Arabia for their project entries. Entries are evaluated by more than 1 000 international science experts.
Three Zimbabwean students were named among the top 40 finalists in the 2025 ISEF. The corporate sector is encouraged to support such talent as the future innovation engines for the nation.
The Zimbabwe finalists included Thomas (AI-powered portable eye screening device for early detection of pediatric eye diseases in low-resource settings).
Gigi (Reboot and recover: The bacteriophage initiative – Harnessing the power of biomimicry to replicate nature’s defenders and revolutionize cybersecurity against digital threats) and Adriana Tadiswa Musonda Chulu, (18), of Arundel School (Using nano technology to purify polluted water in a local lake).
The three Zimbabwean finalists had also won awards at the Zimbabwe National Science Fair.
The competition’s outreach and equity programming seeks to ensure that all students have an opportunity to pursue a career in STEM.
The 2025 ISEF edition, run by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and the Society for Science, recognises the finest young minds who demonstrate exceptional scientific talent and leadership.
The finalists were chosen from a pool of nearly 2 500 entrants and 300 top scholars, reflecting the competition’s rigorous standards.
Every year, organisations representing a wide variety of scientific disciplines provide awards, scholarships, internships and other prizes to hundreds of student finalists.