The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, will launch National Science Week (NSW) 2010, at Fort Hare University (Alice campus) in the Eastern Cape on 29 July.
The minister will be accompanied by the Premier of the Eastern Cape, Noxolo Kiviet.
The focus week runs from 2 to 7 August, with exciting activities for the young and old across the country.
Themed "the role of science in economic development", activities to help raise awareness about science and technology in the country include workshops, competitions, exhibitions, public talks, lectures and seminars.
National Science Week is an initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), implemented by the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA).
It is aimed at highlighting the important role science plays in everyday life and attracting young people to science, engineering and technology careers.
It is a crucial component in support of Department of Science and Technology's activities towards human capital development. National Science Week underlines efforts to radically increase the number of young scientists as part of the national pursuit of sustainable socio-economic development.
While placing emphasis on youth, awareness is also created among sectors of society that have an influence on learners' subject and career choices.
Key objectives include:
- to contribute to the development of a society that values and appreciates science, engineering and technology (SET).
- to provide a platform for scientists to engage one another and the non-scientific community.
- to promote partnership between media and scientists.
- to profile the work of the DST and its priorities to attract learners to SET careers, including research).
Contact:
Lunga Ngqengelele
Tel: 012 843 6802
Cell: 082 566 0446
E-mail: lunga.ngqengelele@dst.gov.za
