NMB’s Science and Technology Centre celebrates ‘decade of inspiring minds’
On Wednesday May 24 the MBDA hosted celebrations marking the 10-year anniversary of the Nelson Mandela Bay Science and Technology Centre.
The function was attended by industry stakeholders, the education sector and various government departments, along with representatives of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.
The theme of the event was “celebrating a decade of inspiring minds to explore the marvels of science and technology”.
Delivering the keynote address, MBDA board chair Glenda Perumal reflected on the recent publication of an article on the dire situation about literacy in SA.
Perumal noted a statement issued by the department of basic education on findings about the literacy progress in SA schools, in particular pupils in grade 4.
The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (Pirls) report revealed that 81% of grade 4 pupils in SA can’t read for meaning.
Perumal said: “Colleagues, let that sink in for a minute.
“That is eight out of 10 grade 4 pupils who do not understand the words they read, this, nearly 30 years into the democratic dispensation.
“These horrific numbers are aggregated, meaning in some areas the problem might be worse.
“We all know how challenged some schools in poorer areas are and the immense difficulties these young learners must go through.”
The MBDA board chair put out a call for action.
“Such massive challenges in our schooling system call for facilities such as this to push back and be part of the solution.
“The incredible work that our team here delivers is so important in shaping young minds and opening their world view through science.
“We are encouraged by the
Level 2 accreditation we have received from the department of science and innovation as it demonstrates excellence in scientific engagement and education that happens here.
“The Nelson Mandela Bay Science and Technology Centre was opened in 2013 by thenminister of science and technology Derek Hanekom.
“Since then more than 140,000 pupils and teachers have been through our programmes, and that is no mean feat.
“Since opening, the centre has provided over 80 final-year students and graduates with valuable workplace experiential learning opportunities.”
Nomsa Kana, deputy chair of the centre’s advisory committee, called on stakeholders to get involved.
“We would appreciate more resources to carry out this work, but we have not sat around doing nothing,” Kana said.
“Our team has established over 40 funding and collaboration partnerships with organisations and institutions.
“Those relationships assist in facilitating the expansion and sustainability of our programmes to reach the neediest. The team has fostered collaborations with several international partners, promoting global knowledge exchange and innovation.
“As we speak, a member of the committee has just secured a new generation model vehicle to be made available to us.
“SA is full of opportunities, but many people in our communities are not able to access such opportunities.
“The NMB STC does not only invite schools to come to us, but we also go to them.
“The centre goes where the need is greatest.”
Advisory committee chair Noxolo Kahlana said the centre had recently established six science clubs in schools in Kariega in an initiative aimed at fostering a love for science and providing additional learning opportunities.
“With the limited resources at our disposal, we have also supported over 20 pupils who participated in national competitions, resulting in exceptional performances and gaining recognition through prestigious awards,” Kahlana said.
“It is no surprise, then, that this young, smart and energetic team has authored and presented over 15 conference papers, showcasing our research, insights and contributions to the field of science and technology education.”
In taking advantage of 4IR, the STC has implemented a virtual reality and virtual streaming programme through the US consulate to strengthen ties and to build relationships with the US through activities that highlight shared values, goals and co-operation.
The Science Centre in Kariega hosts four national events annually, bringing together experts, educators and enthusiasts to promote science and technology awareness.
The facility recently hosted the 16th Southern African Association of Science & Technology
Centres International Conference, serving as a platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration among science centres.
SA is lagging in the adoption of 4IR while children in developed countries are already engaged in coding, robotics, machine learning and augmented reality.
It is important for the centre to support efforts at getting grade 4s to read with comprehension and to be ready for 4IR.
An MBDA spokesperson said the centre’s new five-year plan was prioritising the Kariega precinct, and, in particular, using this facility as a launch pad for greater involvement and developments in that region.
Nelson Mandela Bay economic development, tourism and agriculture political head Luxolo Namete closed off the celebrations by praising the participation of the partners and welcomed the MBDA’s efforts to spread development and access to science education across the metro.