This past weekend, ICGEB participated in the launch of South Africa National Science Week (NSW) 2023, at the University of Venda, in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, South Africa.
The launch of NSW 2023 took place on Saturday, 22 July 2023. NSW will run from 31 July – 5 August 2023, under the theme “Transforming lives through the evidence-based science”.
At this years launch, the ICGEB team, Humaira Lambarey, Dupe Ojo and Mariet Wium, ran a hands-on Foldscope workshop, bringing the ‘magic’ of the paper microscope to the exhibition, with more than 1000 learners, their life sciences teachers and the public present. ICGEB donated Foldscopes to various science teachers, to be used in the classroom as well as the outdoor setting, making science more accessible.
Officially opening the Launch, South African Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande highlighted the importance of bringing science closer to society, and fostering the engagement of society in science, technology and innovation.
‘As a Department of Science and Innovation, we have committed ourselves to using science, technology and innovation as a catalyst for faster and inclusive economic growth, in the short and longer term, as per the National Development Plan. We are also committed to building the science and technology pipeline, and to broadening representativeness in science and technology, making sure that young people, women and people with disabilities are mainstreamed in science-related careers and education at all levels. This is one of the reasons we host the annual National Science Week, as part of our efforts to contribute to the development of a society that is knowledgeable about science and critically engages on science, technology and innovation’ Minister Blade Nzimande
Celebrating NSW, ICGEB Cape Town will host Thandokhulu High School on 3 August 2023, as part of the ICGEB School Outreach Programme.
The ICGEB continues to be actively engaged in the dissemination of science for the public. Contributing to a vibrant scientific community and disseminating knowledge, truth and enthusiasm for science are concepts that are integral to the mission of the ICGEB.
