The National Science Week, organised by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) through the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (Saasta), is an annual nationwide initiative that aims to celebrate and promote the significance of science and technology in our society.
The week-long initiative will take place from Saturday 29 July to Saturday 5 August. The event encourages public engagement with science and highlights its role in transforming lives and driving positive change.
Xavier Lawrence, manager of the Science Centre, said the ArcelorMittal Saldanha Science Centre’s participation in National Science Week is a testament to their commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and promoting the importance of evidence-based science among learners and the public on the West Coast. He said the aim is to target about 3 000 learners from the Foundation Phase up until Further Education and Training.
By collaborating with the DSI and Saasta, the Science Centre ensures its programmes align with the broader national effort to foster a scientific culture and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators specifically in the West Coast Region as committed to by our parent organisation ArcelorMittal South Africa.
“Through this partnership, the Science Centre can leverage the resources and expertise of the DSI and Saasta to deliver a dynamic and impactful Science Week programme,” said Lawrence. “By exploring the theme ‘Transforming Lives through evidence-based science’, the centre aims to align its activities with the national vision of harnessing science and technology to address societal challenges and improve the lives of South Africans.”
The support of the DSI and Saasta allows the Science Centre to reach a broader audience and create a lasting impact in the West Coast region.
With a diverse range of programmes, including the “TED Talk”-style event featuring esteemed guest speakers such as Prof Stanford Chidziva and Mr Pierre Steyn, who will share their expertise on “Transformation through Green Hydrogen” and the “Future sustainability of steel”, respectively.
“The centre’s participation in National Science Week 2023 promises to be a celebration of science, knowledge, and innovation.
“As the National Science Week countdown begins, the collaboration between the ArcelorMittal Saldanha Science Centre, the DSI and Saasta reflects the shared vision of using evidence-based science to transform lives and drive progress for a better and sustainable future.”
