Now in its third-year of operation, Umjikelezo We-Science continues to make scientific waves in KwaZulu-Natal.

The science education outreach initiative is a collaboration involving the Centre for the Advancement of Science and Mathematics Education (CASME, Science2Go); the Durban Natural Science Museum (GO-WILD); the KZN Science Centre; the UNIZULU Science Centre; United Kingdom partner Kitchen Chemistry, and UKZN’s Science and Technology Education Centre (STEC@UKZN).

Currently, Umjikelezo We-Science operates as a self-funded road show that takes science to areas that are not usually exposed to science centres and museums. This year the team has ventured beyond the borders of the greater eThekwini area with schools visited including Muzuvukile Primary School near Richards Bay, Ncaphayi High School and Lindikosi High School near Melmoth, Lindinkosi High School near Inanda, and Intongela Primary School near Hammarsdale. Altogether 971 primary school and 656 high school learners experienced the wonders of science first hand.

In addition, the team presented their show at a shopping mall for the first time when they set up at Boardwalk Mall in Richards Bay.

‘It was a great experience,’ said UKZN Science Centre Co-ordinator, Dr Tanja Reinhardt. ‘Children in these remote areas have a thirst for knowledge and by joining forces we can bring science to them.

‘Despite rain at some locations, we had a great reception, including being met by singing learners. We started out as different organisations but came back as a team.’

Words: Sally Frost

Photograph: Supplied