Pupils inspired to pursue science studies for a better future

UKZN Scientist Dr Tanja Reinhardt conducting a science experiment with the Departmental Head of Maths and science teacher Kumaran Govender, and Sastri college pupils, (from left) Carah Houston, Ashley Mwaramba, Adonai Chireza and Hamzah Motala during the eThekwini Municipality’s Youth Skills Empowerment Program at the school. Picture: Tumi Pakkies/ African News Agency (ANA)

UKZN Scientist Dr Tanja Reinhardt conducting a science experiment with the Departmental Head of Maths and science teacher Kumaran Govender, and Sastri college pupils, (from left) Carah Houston, Ashley Mwaramba, Adonai Chireza and Hamzah Motala during the eThekwini Municipality’s Youth Skills Empowerment Program at the school. Picture: Tumi Pakkies/ African News Agency (ANA)

Published Aug 16, 2023

Share

Durban — Pupils were exposed to science mini-show experiments during the eThekwini municipal Library’s Youth Skills Empowerment Programme.

The event was held at Sastri College, on Tuesday.

The programme aims to equip young adults with essential life skills, career guidance, and personal development tools to enable them to succeed in today’s competitive world.

UKZN Scientist Dr Tanja Reinhardt interacting with Sastri College pupils using a science experiment during the eThekwini Municipality’s Youth Skills Empowerment Program at the school. Picture: Tumi Pakkies/ African News Agency (ANA)

eThekwini District Libraries and Heritage manager Debbie Skelton said: “If we can encourage children to follow that path, their future will be bright, which is what we want to see. It will also play a role in the development of the country in terms of technology, maths and science, which will advance the country to become more powerful and relevant to the world stage.”

Skelton urged parents to encourage their children. She said there were many services offered in libraries other than books.

UKZN Scientist Dr Tanja Reinhardt interacting with Sastri College pupils using a science experiment during the eThekwini Municipality’s Youth Skills Empowerment Program at the school. Picture: Tumi Pakkies/ African News Agency (ANA)

Sastri College principal Santhosh Rajoomar said the programme fitted in with the college’s vision of promoting the teaching of maths and science.

“We believe the education they will receive in these subjects will steer them into careers that will help to contribute towards the upliftment of all we so much need in this country. South Africa needs engineers, people in the medical fields, educators, and scientists so we can improve the lives of millions of citizens,” he said.

Rajoomar said the best way to do it was to ignite a passion for maths and science.

Sastri college pupils, municipality representatives and their educators during the eThekwini municipality Youth Skills Empowerment Programme at their school. Picture: Tumi Pakkies/African News Agency (ANA)

Grade 8 pupil, Rehmal Hussain, said she learnt to conduct her first science experiment.

“Today I learnt a lot, I learnt how to do my new experiments with the cup and water. My favourite was the hand flaming and the fire breath,” she said.

WhatsApp your views on this story to 071 485 7995.

Daily News