L-R: Prof Jan Crafford, Mrs Beauty Mutheiwana, Mrs Mavis Madzhie and Dr Segun Obadire Officially Launching National Science Week 2022 at Vuwani Science Resource Centre (VSRC).
Basic Sciences hold the economy of the world and the future of developing countries like South Africa. The next generation needs to understand the basic sciences from early childhood so that the developing countries will be able to have better-talented scientists and young entrepreneurs. There is currently a need to develop sustainable technologies in areas related to energy, food and water in the African continent and this is dependent on the next generation.
Prof Crafford – Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning
Prof Crafford, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning encouraged learners to look forward to the future of science and to follow science career in tertiary institutions. He further elaborated the impact of Vuwani Science Resource Centre in the Vhembe district and added that he received a letter from Mugoidwa Secondary school indicating their appreciation to VSRC for the improvement of the science pass rate from below 30% to above 90%. “We want you to come to UNIVEN with a sound background of Science, Mathematics and Technology”, added Prof Crafford. He concluded by encouraging learners to take much information home with them and make use of the opportunity given to them during the National Science Week by Vuwani Science Resource Centre.
National Science Week (NSW) is an initiative of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI). This is to celebrate various role players conducting science-based activities within the dedicated week. National Science Week is run in all nine provinces simultaneously at multiple sites per province.
Prof. Jan Crafford told the learners who were present during the official opening that the Vuwani Science Resource Centre exists for their benefit. He said learners are the hopes of this country’s future.
Dr Eric Maluta – Coordinator – Vuwani Science Resource Centre
Dr Eric Maluta, Coordinator of the Vuwani Science Resource Centre appreciated the official opening and indicated that the National Science Technology Forum (NSTF) awards and two certificates awarded to the centre were to be celebrated by both the team and the learners. The 2021/2022 NSTF Science Communication Award and the accreditation certificate from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) were handed to the DVC Teaching and Learning. Dr. Maluta further advised learners to continue to study hard as they hold the future.
Professor Peter Tshisikhawe – Head of Department – Biological Sciences
Professor Peter Tshisikhawe, HoD Biological Sciences, during his welcome message told learners to take Science, Mathematics and Technology as subjects that open doors to their future. He added that learners need to follow science careers from undergraduate until they become fully-fledged researchers who will use science in understanding the world. He further encouraged all participants, including University of Venda Delegates, Educators, Learners, and the public to enjoy the Vuwani Science Resource Centre National Science Week activities. He also encouraged the sponsors to continue supporting VSRC which is taking science to the immediate surrounding communities.
Dr Segun Obadire – Director – International Relations and Partnerships
In his closing remarks, acting Director International Relations and Partnerships, Dr Segun Obadire said, “this is an annual celebration in the awareness of science, technology and mathematics throughout South Africa”. He congratulated Vuwani Science Resource Centre for its achievements on the NSTF awards and the Accreditation status they have obtained for the network of Science Centre established by the Department of Science and Innovation. He added that learners must continue supporting the national science week activities to be hosted by Vuwani Science Resource Centre throughout the week starting 01 to 06 August 2022.
Mr Takalani Nyelisani – Schools Liaison Officer – Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
As programme director, Mr Takalani Nyelisani continued to entertain the audience with his skills and encouraged the learners to apply to the University of Venda before they can think about other institutions. He further added that the future needs scientists and researchers who will solve global problems. He encouraged learners to interact with Mr Justice Lebopa who later engaged them. The PhD holder in Mathematics, Dr Rosina Mukhodobwane had the opportunity to encourage learners to pursue mathematics as a career as they study science and technology in their higher education.
The team of staff and interns from Vuwani Science Resource Centre was celebrated for the good work they are doing in the surrounding community and encouraged to continue making an impact in the 2022 National science week.
Learners from various secondary schools around Vuwani and Thohoyandou listening to speakers during the official launch of 2022 National Science Week.
Learners celebrating the official opening of the 2022 National Science Week shortly before refreshments.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding & Communication
University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525 /8710
Date: 29 August 2022
