Page 21 - Science in Africa

The Scifest exhibitions offer learners career guidance and the opportunity to engage with Experts in their fields engage with students to show them the different disciplines science of- Exhibitions allow young minds to engage with science in an interactive and informal way
scientists fers
INSPIRING

SOUTH AFRICAN

SCIENTISTS OF THE FUTURE
The science behind the human body was one of the exhibitions that drew Getting up close with science – students were given the opportunity for
a lot of attention at Scifest 2017 PHOTOS: MKHULISENI MDLALOSE some hands-on experience at Scifest 2017
he South African department of science and particularly mathematics, have been presented to young
technology hosts Scifest every year to expose people as “a kind of bogeyman”.
young minds to the wonders of science and “You know, something you should be afraid of. So, young
innovation. people are told these are difficult subjects – don’t try to do
This year’s Scifest took place in them. They’ll lower your overall average for your
TGrahamstown, where South African Science performance in tests and examinations.”
and Technology Minister Naledi Pandor urged learners Pandor emphasised that the cycle of fear of mathematics
attending the official launch to overcome their fear of and science had to be broken “because once you get a good
mathematics and science. foundation in these subjects, you’re able to do really well
Scifest is Africa’s largest festival on science, technology right up to PhD level”.
and innovation supported by the department of science and She said innovation was not beyond the reach of the
technology. The event celebrated its 21st anniversary under curious pupil at school or the keen student at university,
the theme, Tour de Science. mentioning several other young role models who have come
The programme is focused on journeys, tours, and paths up with solutions to challenges currently facing South
of knowledge throughout the universe and to ensure the Africa.
sustainability of planet Earth. Pandor pointed out that there has never been a better
Addressing the opening event, Pandor acknowledged that time in history for Africans to develop home-grown
there were certain challenges that needed to be addressed solutions for challenges facing the continent. She urged
Students were exposed to science in all its forms at Scifest 2017 – from the to get children committed to mathematics and science. particularly women and young people to take advantage of These young schoolchildren were captivated by their scientific encounters
Square Kilometre Array project to road construction One of these is that science and technology, and the opportunities that are available. at Scifest 2017
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