Rhodes University’s Faculties of Science and Pharmacy will engage 450 local Grade 9 learners in over 20 science and maths related activities during an Open Day this Saturday, 5 August. The much-anticipated event forms part of the 18th National Science Week starting from 05 to 13 August 2017.
Themed “Advancing Science Tourism”, this year’s science week aims to highlight the link between science and tourism and how science plays a role in enhancing tourists’ experiences through scientific attractions such as the Cradle of Humankind, observatories, science centres, national parks and botanical gardens.
The Science Open Day aims to encourage Grade 9 learners from Grahamstown and surrounds to take an interest in scientific and technological developments and pave a path towards transforming South Africa into a knowledge-based economy.
The event celebrates the role that science, mathematics and engineering play in everyday life and encourages more young people to follow careers in these fields.
As a mathematician himself, Dr Sizwe Mabizela, Rhodes University’s Vice Chancellor is especially looking forward to welcoming these young minds to the University for the Open Day.
The learners will receive a subject choice talk from Christine Lewis of the RU Career Centre. She will be encouraging them to take up Maths and Science when they choose this October.
Rhodes University is one of five universities in South Africa that will host the Science Open Day. The South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity,Albany Museum and Amakhala Foundation will also form part of the daylong programme.
The activities on offer include a range of original concepts from a Pharmacy Magic Show, to Hip-hop Computer Science and Taxidermy Demonstrations.
“A range of departments and research groups from Rhodes University are part of the programme. Rhodes science students will serve as chaperones for the youngsters. Citizens of Grahamstown are welcome to bring their children and participate in the Open Day,” said Kim Weaver, Community Engagement Officer, Zoology & Entomology Department.
The National Science Week is an annual event coordinated by the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement on behalf of the Department of Science and Technology. Five universities and 59 other organisations, will participate in bringing the world of science to the South African youth.
The Open Day starts at 08h30 to 12h30 at the Chemistry Building. Those wishing to bring pupils or their own children must email Kim Weaver at k.weaver@ru.ac.za.