The ArcelorMittal Foundation Saldanha Science Centre organised a host of activities aimed at promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Innovation during National Science week between Monday 1 and Saturday 6 August. The theme of this year’s National Science Week was “Celebrating the role of basic sciences in the modern world”.
National Science Week is an initiative led by the Department of Science and Innovation and managed by the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement. The Science Centre developed a comprehensive programme for the week which focused on exposing learners to the world around them on the West Coast and in so doing enlightened them on the basic sciences in and around their environment. Xavier Lawrence, manager of the Science Centre thanked the various stakeholders for their support.
“On Saturday 6 August 2022 we rounded off the week with a sponsored excursion for learners to !Kwha ttu, a San indigenous reserve, to learn about our heritage through the San and how they applied basic sciences to everyday life in order to adapt and survive in their environment,” Lawrence explained.While the learners were being exposed to indigenous life of the San, the rest of the Science Centre Staff together with some volunteers and marshals, entertained and enthralled the public at the West Coast Mall with numerous activities.
“It was a sight to behold as the children and adults beamed with amazement during the Science Show facilitated by Siphosethu Legoabe.”The Science Show offered activities and challenges for children as well as adults, including robotics, mathematical puzzles and exploring organisms through microscopes. “The activities were well received and thoroughly enjoyed. There is no doubt that our diverse programme was a great success and proves that the ArcelorMittal Foundation NPC Saldanha Science Centre has meaningful influences in encouraging and exposing our learners to the wonderful world of Science Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Innovation and how important it is to develop 21st Century skills in an ever-changing environment,” Lawrence concluded.
