Minister Kubayi-Ngubane to open Scifest 2018
The Minister of Science and Technology, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, will launch South Africa’s national science festival, Scifest Africa, in Grahamstown, on Friday, 9 March.
Scifest Africa is celebrating its 22nd anniversary from 7-13 March, to promote public awareness, understanding and appreciation of science, technology and innovation in South Africa.
The theme for 2018 is “Innovation 4.0”, with reference to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which attributes technology advancement and transformation.
Dr Tiisetso Lephoto from Wits University – one of the country’s youngest PhD Graduates – will deliver the annual Brian Wilmot lecture to hundreds of learners attending about her work in biological and molecular sciences.
At the age of 26, Dr Lephoto is already leading in her field and is one of SA’s brightest young researchers who is passionate about science, agriculture and innovation, and mentoring youth.
Her area of research focuses on isolating and identifying biological control agents (natural insect pest controllers) which may be used to control problematic insects in agricultural industries instead of synthetic chemical pesticides, which have been reported to have bad consequences in human, animal and plant health.
Guests will also be taken into the world of innovation in South Africa with Professor Mike Bruton, talking about his ‘awesome South African Inventions’.
With continued support from the Department of Science and Technology, Scifest makes science accessible to the public, encouraging parents and schools from across the country to bring learners to the event.
Media is invited as follows:
Date: Friday, 09 March
Venue: Settlers’ Monument
Time: 18:00 – 20:15
For more information, contact:
Veronica Mohapeloa
Cell: 083 4005750
Thabang Setlhare
Cell: 072 659 9690
