Soweto learners invited to explore STEM careers and digital skills

The People Empowerment and Skills Training Organisation (PESTO) will host the PESTO STEM and Digital Opportunity Day in partnership with Immaculata Secondary School in Zone 2, Diepkloof, Soweto, on October 23.

This event, with the theme ‘Soweto’s Future Starts Here’, seeks to engage Grade 10 to Grade 12 learners in relation to science, technology, engineering, mathematics and the digital economy.

There will be sessions on artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, coding, STEM career pathing, Women in STEM and the possible innovation and response of youth to social problems in their respective communities.

ALSO READ: New coding and robotics centre launched at Soweto primary school

The Mofikeng Digital Innovation Hub (MDIHub) will provide virtual demonstration sessions in AI, robotics and coding, to give learners the chance to see how these emerging technologies are transforming industries.

The organisation is also seeking collaborations with education and STEM stakeholders, such as the University of Johannesburg’s Soweto Science Centre, to create links between school-level learning, further education and beyond.

This project will be part of the larger PESTO STEM movement that is dedicated to helping youth realise their potential and future career pathing.

The event will also include insights from professionals in technical disciplines like Patronella Molutsi, a technologist and engineer with vast experience in engineering, mining, safety, technology and leadership.

PESTO also acknowledges the professional life of Dr Kugulethu Kumalo.

According to PESTO, the conference is designed to create links between township learners and the information and knowledge that can enable them to participate in the future economy.

“Talent is in our communities,” said PESTO executive chairperson Sibusiso Ndaba. “The challenge is that young people need to be exposed to the opportunities before them, have access to information and start seeing how they can contribute. This event is supposed to be the beginning of such discussions.”

ALSO READ: Eldorado Park and Soweto schools prepare for robotics competition and tech launch

Considering that some of the learners will be taking examinations, PESTO noted that the conference will be recorded, and selected parts will be posted on the social media pages of PESTO to make sure that it is accessible to everyone.

The conference will take place from 10:00 to 16:00.

Event details:

Venue: Immaculata Secondary School at 2063A Muhuyu Street, Zone 2, Diepkloof

Date: October 23

Time: 10:00 to 16:00