The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Science Centre marked an important milestone in its growth and outreach efforts through a successful collaboration with the KwaZulu-Natal Museum during the World Biodiversity Day celebrations, held on 22 May in Pietermaritzburg.
Led by the KZN Museum’s Education Department, under the guidance of Mr Akhona Lukhozi and Ms Anele Jili, the event brought together learners, educators and environmental stakeholders to celebrate biodiversity and environmental stewardship.
A key feature of the day was a biodiversity project competition involving 11 teams of Grade 7 learners from schools across the region. The competition challenged learners to develop projects focused on biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability. A total of 40 learners participated.
The winning schools were:
- First place: Nobanda Primary School
- Second place: Georgedale Primary School
- Third place: Maria Memorial School
The event also attracted organisations such as GroundTruth and other environmental stakeholders. The UKZN Science Centre facilitated an interactive biodiversity activity and hosted an exhibition stand, supported by fellow UKZN CASSE staff members. Principal Academic Development Officer Ms Zenelise Mbambo also served as one of the adjudicators.
The collaboration reflects the UKZN Science Centre’s ongoing commitment to expanding its outreach footprint through strategic partnerships that enhance science engagement opportunities for learners and communities across KwaZulu-Natal.
The event also marked the beginning of a collaborative relationship between the UKZN Science Centre and the KZN Museum, with both institutions committed to expanding science engagement and outreach opportunities in the province.
Reflecting on the event, KZN Museum Education Officer Ms Anele Jili said: “The event was a great success. We look forward to future collaborations that bring science to life for the youth across environmental programmes and beyond.”
UKZN Science Centre Officer Ms Lexia Naidoo emphasised the value of collaboration in advancing science education: “Partnerships such as this allow us to extend our reach and create meaningful learning experiences for young people. By working together, we can inspire curiosity, strengthen scientific literacy, and encourage greater public engagement with science and environmental issues.”
The World Biodiversity Day celebration represents the first of what is expected to be many joint initiatives between the UKZN Science Centre and the KZN Museum, strengthening opportunities for learners and communities to engage with science in meaningful and accessible ways.
Words: NdabaOnline
Photograph: Supplied