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41% of getS.E.T.go! readers think that the most important benefit of hosting the Square Kilometre Array telescope, would be the boost it gives our international reputation as experts in this field. |
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37% opted for “attracting more young people into science and engineering”; and 22% for “foreign investment for local technology projects”. |
Scientists at Stellenbosch University have developed a high-tech "tea bag" filter that fits into the neck of a bottle and turns polluted water into clean water as you drink from it.
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City folk often assume that the greatest need for educational support is in the deep rural areas. As a result, they miss the chance to get involved closer to home. SAASTA’s Education Unit recently became involved in a primary and secondary school in a disadvantaged community in Soshanguve, proving that just a few extra resources and a little special attention can make a big difference.
The Intsoseng community close to Pretoria is plagued by a lack of science educational resources and poor school results. After a special request from the Intsoseng Youth Forum and ANC Youth League, SAASTA’s Education Unit manager, Dr Jabu Nukeri, and project coordinator James Thlabane, visited two of the schools in the area to assess the needs of the educators and learners.
“The Intsoseng Secondary School and Madiba Utlwa Primary, its feeder primary school, are relatively new and have good infrastructure, but there is a great lack of study material,” says Thlabane.
The SAASTA team donated a collection of grade 9 and 10 textbooks and a number study guides to supplement the maths and physical science study material at the high school. They also donated chemistry and electricity kits to the primary school, and provided training for educators on how to use these kits.
The team also arranged a special visit by four role models – a chemical engineer, geologist, mechanical engineer and industrial engineer – who spoke to high school learners about their careers and encouraged them to consider following careers in science, engineering and technology.
The SAASTA team plans to stay involved in this community and will follow up on the grade 12 results at the end of the year. Watch this space for details.