The North-West University (NWU) Vice-Chancellor’s Science Day is a collaborative effort between the office of the principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, Prof Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka and the NWU’s Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences. One of its main objectives is to raise awareness and inspire high school students to pursue (STEM) Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics related fields.
With the inaugural Vice-Chancellor’s Science Day launched in 2023, the 2025 installment was the third time the event was held, catering for 1200 grade 9 to 11 pupils from various high schools in the John Taolo Gaetsewe and Tsantsabane Municipalities, Northern Cape.
Supported by the Department of Basic Education, the one-day event had over 70 exhibitors which included Government Departments, career booths from various NWU faculties and a hands-on robotics workshop.
Prof Tyobeka – highlights the importance of the Science Day and collaboration with stakeholders.
“STEM education opens doors to careers that are in high demand. A strong foundation in STEM can empower young people to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness by finding solutions that are relevant to the actual needs of their area.
If learners continue to embrace STEM education, they can become pioneers in fields such as renewable energy, healthcare, technology, agriculture and more, contributing to the development and sustainability of their communities.
This event serves as a platform for fostering partnerships and collaboration. The involvement and support of Kumba Iron Ore has shown their commitment to sustainable community involvement and improving the standard of living for members of the community.”
Project Lead and Socio-Economic Development Specialist at Kumba Iron Ore – Walter Khumo, emphasised the need of the Science Day initiative in the community. “This initiative is in alignment with ourAngloAmerican values which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities in our host communities.
Through Kumba’s sponsorship of the 2025 NWU VC Science Day, we’ve managed not only to raise awareness and exposure to STEM related fields, but hopefully sparked interest in the minds of high school pupils to pursue career paths that will make a meaningful impact in our communities.”
