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Taking astronomy to the corners of SA A new science centre being developed in the far northern corner of KwaZulu-Natal, on the border with Mozambique, was a hub of astronomy outreach activities in June.
Sivuyile Manxoyi and Buzani Khumalo of the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) in Cape Town were hosted by Sipheshle Bukhosini, the driving force behind Isibusiso Esihle Science Centre in Manguzi. She converted a tavern into a science centre and has been receiving support from SAASTA and the Unizulu Science Centre in Richards Bay in the form of exhibits, posters and educational resources such as a digital projector, computer, camera and telescope to realise her dream of creating an interest in science among the learners of her community. Educator workshops Sivuyile and Buzani spent six days facilitating educator workshops in the Mtubatuba, Mbazwana, Bhambana and Manguzi areas. The workshops were hosted in various educational resource centres and halls, organised by Mrs Bukhosini and Ms Slu Sibiya, a curriculum adviser in the district. "The workshops, attended by 430 educators in total, were based on the new CAPS curriculum and covered 'Earth and Beyond', the most ignored area of the curriculum," says Sivuyile. Topics covered included seasons, phases of the moon, the sun, the life and death of stars, the solar system, early development of astronomy including indigenous knowledge, our galaxy and neighbouring galaxies. Stargazing The science centre hosted its first stargazing event on June 5. A stakeholders' forum was held on June 6, followed by another stargazing evening. The Chief Education Specialist of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Basic Education, Mr Ntombela, expressed his gratitude and satisfaction with how the workshops were conducted. He invited Sivuyile and Buzani to facilitate workshops for intermediate phase learners too during the third quarter of the school calendar. |
