All about science
JOHANNESBURG - The Space Age Independent School situated in President Park was appointed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to host National Science Week which was held from 6 to 12 August.
Project leader of National Science Week at the school, Jessica Rangi Singh, said she believed the school was chosen because it is new in the area, and strives towards excellence in mathematics and science.
The Midrand community, as well as other businesses within the area, were invited to attend National Science Week at the school.
According to Singh, the objective was to popularise science within the broader South African society. It also served as a vehicle for showcasing local innovations in science and technology and the leadership role of the DST and other government departments.
These agencies enable research, development and innovation to make science, technology, engineering and mathematics appealing to pupils so that they consider these as preferable career options; and also to familiarise and inform the public.
National Science Week is an annual event for the Department of Science and Technology and according to the department’s Dr Phetiwe Matutu, the main aim was to expose people to the wonders of science and improve the knowledge of the youth in science with the hope that they would reach a tertiary institution and actually study science-driven fields of learning. Matutu furthermore revealed that it is part of the department’s Science Engagement Strategy and Plans related to human capital development.
The National Science Week evaluation is done every five years by the department in order to assess its influence on the youth.
