POLOKWANE – The University of Limpopo (UL) honoured the spirit of service on Nelson Mandela Day by bringing science directly to the community through a public exhibition at Paledi Mall.

Hosted by the UL Science Centre in partnership with the UL Digital Hub and Sciethrive Impact, the outreach formed part of National Science Month under the theme; “Science, Technology and Innovation are for Everyone.”

The event aimed to make science accessible beyond classrooms and laboratories for learners, families and shoppers.

More than just sharing knowledge

Programmes coordinator at the Science Centre and part-time lecturer for the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA)-funded Postgraduate Diploma in Science Communication, Sandile Rikhotso, said the initiative shows that science communication is about more than sharing knowledge.

“Through initiatives such as ‘Science in the Mall’, the University of Limpopo continues to demonstrate that science communication is also about empowering communities to become informed participants in an increasingly digital world,” Rikhotso said.

“By fostering scientific curiosity, promoting ethical innovation and strengthening public engagement, the University reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that science, technology and innovation remain accessible, inclusive and beneficial to all.”

The university’s Technology Transfer Office (TTO) and UL Digital Hub demonstrated technologies linked to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, including drones and Virtual Reality (VR).

Eyes in the sky, data on the ground

Visitors watched live drone demonstrations showing how the technology is used in agriculture, environmental monitoring, infrastructure inspection, disaster management and geospatial mapping.

The demonstrations highlighted how drones can collect data quickly and safely in areas that are difficult to reach.

Stepping into a digital world

For many, it was their first experience with VR.

Learners used VR headsets to explore digital environments and learned how the technology is applied in education, training and e-sports.

Innovation comes with a warning

Commercialisation officer Pontsho Mampuru, who works closely with the UL Digital Hub, said developments in artificial intelligence, robotics, deepfakes and immersive technologies create opportunities but also raise ethical questions.

“Technology should never advance faster than our understanding of its impact on people,” Mampuru said.

“As artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies reshape society, they also introduce new risks relating to privacy, identity, cybersecurity, misinformation and equality.

“Communities should be equipped with the knowledge to use these technologies responsibly and recognise when they are being misused.”

He added that science communication and digital literacy are essential to ensure technology benefits society.

Science made part of everyday life

Sciethrive Impact complemented the exhibition with practical science demonstrations, giving learners and community members a chance to explore scientific concepts through hands-on activities.

Programme and education coordinator at Sciethrive Impact Matipa Molomo said the goal was to connect science to everyday life.

“Science communication is about helping people understand the science that influences their daily lives. It encourages critical thinking and enables communities to participate in discussions about the opportunities and challenges presented by scientific and technological advancement,” Molomo said.

“National Science Month enables the university to strengthen partnerships, expand outreach programmes and create opportunities for students to participate in science and innovation.”

The outreach reaffirmed UL’s vision of ‘finding solutions for Africa’ through impactful research, innovation and community engagement.