SAEON sparkles at Scifest Africa 2013

A young learner reads up information about the Hamerkop. (Picture: Sibongile Mokoena)

Thomas Mtontsi, Education Officer of the SAEON Egagasini Node, explains the role of the oceans in weather systems. (Picture: Sibongile Mokoena)

Scifest Africa is an annual highlight on the calendar of many organisations that play a role in promoting science education and science careers.

This year was no exception, and SAEON was there - visible, active and interacting with the 66 282 learners who attended Scifest Africa 2013, which was held in Grahamstown in March.

The science festival was opened by the Minister of Science and Technology, Derek Hanekom. As a passionate supporter of science education, Hanekom is no stranger to Scifest. In his address he acknowledged the contribution of the various partners: government, business, science councils, higher education institutions and non-profit organisations. He encouraged learners to use the opportunities available to them to get the best education possible, because they are the future of our country. He took time to walk around the exhibition stands and talk to the contributors.

Waterworld

SAEON exhibited at two major Scifest venues - Waterworld and the 1820 Settlers National Monument. Waterworld, which was hosted by the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB) accommodated various organisations with a focus on marine sciences. Learners were exposed to different types of equipment used in marine research and had ample opportunity to talk to marine scientists about their fascinating work and careers.

SAEON’s Magic Planet once again proved its worth as a teaching tool. While younger learners became engrossed in seeing and naming the oceans and were thrilled to be shown the bottom of the ocean, older learners found the demonstration of tectonic plates fascinating. Waterworld's display and lectures on sharks, whales and other sea creatures provided stimulating learning opportunities for the youngsters.

1820 Settlers Monument

The Settlers Monument site was packed with thousands of learners who had come to spend days in Grahamstown to ensure they do not miss out on anything at Scifest. The SAEON stand on the site attracted a lot of attention and learners asked many questions about the different biomes where SAEON is engaged in long-term monitoring.

The SAEON Kids

The SAEON Kids is a support programme for learners in Grade 10 selected from schools that participate in the SAEON Elwandle Node’s education programme. The SAEON Kids visit Scifest under the Elwandle Node’s care and guidance where they attend workshops, talks and science shows such as the Amazing Laser Show which is a must-see for every kid who visits Scifest. In this way SAEON adds value and meaning to the Scifest experience.

Planning for Scifest 2014 has already started. SAEON intends to offer more hands-on activities and provide a platform for SAEON scientists and interns to give talks and demonstrations to learners.

Family members enjoy a bird game with Sibongile Mokoena, SAEON’s Education Outreach Coordinator, ready to assist. (Picture: Joe Sibiya) Education Officer Nozipiwo Hambaze (left) and Intern Athi Mfikili of the SAEON Elwandle Node show learners the equipment used for coastal monitoring. (Picture: Joe Sibiya) Joe Sibiya, Education Officer at the SAEON Ndlovu Node explains the advantages of long-term observation to interested learners. (Picture: Sibongile Mokoena)