National Science Week 2023 to be launched in Limpopo
Over 1 000 learners from Thohoyandou and the surrounds will be treated to a science, technology and innovation (STI) extravaganza when the Department of Science and Innovation launches the 2023 instalment of National Science Week (NSW) at the University of Venda on Saturday, 22 July 2023.
The NSW is an annual science engagement initiative led by the Department and the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA). A national launch is held in a different province each year.
The focus week provides a platform for people of all ages to learn more about STI and its importance in daily life through science shows, demonstrations, workshops, lectures and science centres. It is important for ordinary citizens to build relationships with scientists and a better understanding of research.
This year's theme, "Transforming lives through evidence-based science", is intended to entrench the concept of science as the solution to everyday problems, and encourage young people to study and enter careers in STI to help take the country forward.
16-year-old Uyatshila Munenyiwa, from Thengwe High School in the Vhembe District and the winner of the Limpopo South African Youth Water Prize, will make a presentation on her grassroots innovation solution to the sanitation challenges at her school.
She will be joined by Vhuthu Tshilengo, the first University of Venda student to pursue a master's degree in astronomy, who will present her research on ThunderKAT, one of the MeerKAT's large survey projects.
Learners and their parents, as well as interested members of the public, are invited to attend the launch event. There will be 200 exhibits, showcasing technologies such as energy storage testbeds, livestock identification and traceability systems, facial recognition and fingerprint technology, and cybersecurity among others.
The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, will give the opening address at the launch. He will be accompanied by provincial officials, the Vhembe Executive Mayor, Cllr Dowelani Nenguda, and the University Vice-Chancellor, Dr Bernard Nthambeleni.
National Science Week activities will be held throughout the country between 31 July and 5 August 2023.
The media are invited to the NSW launch as follows:
Date: Saturday, 22 July 2023
Time: 09:00 to 13:30
Venue: University of Venda Auditorium, University Road, Thohoyandou
For media enquiries and attendance, please contact Thabang Setlhare at 072 659 9690 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or and Zama Mthethwa at 082 808 3956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Michael Ellis at 072 287 7496 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
