Page 7 - DUT Showcase Report 2023

PHYSICAL SCIENCE PRACTICALS FOR SCHOOLS
Project Team: Dr Siya NDLELA | Dr Thabang MOKHOTHU | Talent MAKHANYA | Sandile SITHOLE
TEmail: siyabongan8@dut.ac.za | thabangm1@dut.ac.za
he project aims to bridge the inequality gap in science education by supporting Grade 10-12 students in practical activities as outlined in the Life and Physical Sciences
CAPS document. Recognising that some schools face significant resource challenges, the project provides study materials and hands-on experiences during school visits and vacation periods, focusing on schools in the Durban Metro area. By engaging students in small groups and using central venues for larger groups, the project enhances their understanding and passion for science. To improve efficiency and interaction, additional science kits are needed. The initiative aligns with the university’s societal goals by fostering valuable collaborations, practical knowledge application, and preparing future-ready graduates. The project has successfully supported students from around 45 schools annually and strengthened partnerships with educators, contributing to the preference for DUT among graduating students.
IMPACT AND SUSTAINABILITY
The school engagement project aims to enhance chemistry education by collaborating with teachers and education managers to
provide high school students with hands-on chemistry experiments. It empowers postgraduate chemistry students with facilitation and mentoring skills, and supports high school educators with advanced laboratory techniques. The project fosters positive attitudes towards science, aims to improve pass rates in science subjects, and bridges the educational gap between high school and tertiary education. It strengthens partnerships among high school educators, industries, and DUT staff, involving both junior and senior academics and laboratory support staff. Operational costs are manageable, covering travel, chemicals, and marketing materials, with support from the Chemistry Department and university collaborations ensuring sustainability.
Faculty: Applied Sciences Department: Chemistry
Project Leader: Dr Myalo SABELA Email: myalos@dut.ac.za
Mobile: 061 674 7660