SAEON camp exposes learners to diverse career opportunities in science

Learners monitor the rocky shores (Picture: Joe Sibiya) All life forms observed are identified and recorded (Picture: Joe Sibiya)

- Nozi Hambaze, Education Outreach Officer, SAEON Elwandle Node

At the official launch of National Science Week in Alice earlier this year, the Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor re-emphasised the dire need for young Black South African Scientists.  

SAEON, together with engineering company Murray & Roberts identified this gap early on and took the initiative to run an education outreach programme that directly addresses the need for young Black South African scientists. Through this outreach programme learners are encouraged to opt for careers in science.

A highlight of the education outreach programme is the annual science camp, which is aimed at equipping learners with the knowledge and skills to apply scientific methodology, and to expose them to a variety of careers and environments in science, engineering and technology. This year's science camp took place at The Willows, a beachfront resort in Port Elizabeth, with 19 of the top science learners from the previously disadvantaged schools in Grahamstown and four from Phalaborwa.

The programme was packed with presentations by experts in the field of science, engineering and technology, visits to various science institutions in Port Elizabeth as well as science experiments. “At Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University we were exposed to microscopes and learned how to use them,” commented Mihlalikazi Swartbooi, a Grade 11 learner from Mary Waters High School. “At school we are taught about microscopes and microscopic organisms, but we never get to see or use microscopes,” she added.

Monitoring the rocky shores

Learners were tasked with monitoring the rocky shores at The Willows and this exposed them to new scientific skills. “I learned how to identify different species and how they are adapted to live on a certain part of the shore,” Mihlalikazi said. “I particularly enjoyed the fieldwork because I wish to pursue a career in science one day,” said Sanele Nthsingana, a Grade 11 learner from Nathaniel Nyaluza High School.  

The objectives of the camp were achieved in that several learners indicated that they were interested in pursuing a career in science and that the camp had made them realise that career opportunities in science, engineering and technology abound.

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