Lethabo Molobi, a rising science talent from the North West, is currently in Sweden attending the prestigious Stockholm International Youth Science Seminar during Nobel Week.

What Happened

Molobi, a former learner at Zinniaville Secondary School, earned her place at the event after winning the 2023 University of Pretoria/Dr Derek Gray Memorial Award. Her project, titled Can humans recognise text produced by AI chatbots?, stood out at the Eskom Expo International Science Fair.

As part of the seminar, Molobi and fellow young scientists visited the Nobel Prize Museum, explored the Nobel Lights, and went ice skating in central Stockholm.

Official Response

Her award includes:

• The Derek Gray Gold Medal
• A bursary for three years at the University of Pretoria
• Participation in Nobel Week’s Stockholm seminar

She is now pursuing a BSc in Computer Science.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience science at an international level,” said a spokesperson from the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists.

Community Impact

Molobi’s story is a proud moment for the Bojanala region and young women in STEM across South Africa. Her achievements shine a spotlight on local learners making waves on the global stage.

Key facts:

• Zinniaville learner earns global science honour
• Seminar runs during Nobel Prize Week
• Project explored AI and human interaction
• Hosted in Stockholm, Sweden
• BSc studies funded by UP bursary