A large number of learners from Umlazi Township schools now have a clear understanding of how they need to plan for their lives and be able to make meaningful contributions to the economy in the coming few years. These learners from Ndukwenhle High School, Umlazi Comtech High School, Umlazi Commercial High School, and Velabahleke High School gathered at the University’s Bozzoli Hall on 7 August 2025 and listened to very constructive speeches by both University staff and very learned guests. All the speakers talked about the importance of science in the lives of human beings, and the environment. The event was part of the National Science Week, 4-8 August 2025. The theme for the 2025 National Science Week is “Science, Technology and Innovation are for everyone”. The theme puts emphasis on the importance of making science inclusive, accessible and relevant to all South Africans, regardless of their backgrounds. The aim is to bridge the gap between science and society and to showcase how science, technology and innovation impact daily life and contribute to solving real-world problems.
The University responded to the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation and NRF SAASTA’s call for proposals, wherein they stated they wanted to conduct during the National Science Week. Mfundo Makhanya, a Lecturer at the Department of Analytical Chemistry, said they wanted to bring awareness about Science, Technology, and Innovation to Umlazi Township schools.
The first very striking message was from Dr Thobeka Makhathini, who was the programme director. Dr Makhathini, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemical Engineering, reminded the learners that there are no longer careers that are exclusively for men. All the other speakers also made it clear that the study and use of science had no gender limitations.
Sabelo Mzimela, a retired mechanical engineering expert who worked for some of the major industries in South Africa, advised the learners to consider all the jobs that are available in the science field. “All industries need different kinds of sciences. Any product is a combination of different sciences. You need to be curious to know more. The field is very wide,” Mzimela said. Mzimela emphasised the need for career guidance for learners and suggested that industry professionals be invited to lecture at institutions like MUT. But that relationship has to be planned for properly, he said later.
Dr Xolile Ngubane, Senior Director in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, advised learners to develop a habit of reading to enhance their knowledge. Referring to the government’s white Papers, Dr Ngubane said, “Read the papers by the government so you will know what the government is saying about the economy. The South African economy needs rearranging”. Dr Ngubane also highlighted the need for artisan skills that are a major part of the economy.
Dr Vikash Jugoo, the Head of the Department of Information Communication and Technology (ICT), told the learners about the advantages of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and how it is going to impact the lives of the people. Most importantly, Dr Jugoo emphasised the need for everyone to adjust to the present times, which are called the Fourth/Fifth Industrial Revolution.
Other speakers – Sibusiso Mncibi, an MUT Analytical Chemistry graduate, now a Laboratory Manager at the eThekwini Municipality, and the University Clinic’s Sister Nomusa Mkhwanazi, also had constructive messages for the learners.
The learners appreciated the opportunity to listen to the speakers telling them about the importance of science. Nothile Shezi, a learner from Umlazi Comtech School, said there must be a balance between the theory part of what they study, and the practice. Most of the former Black schools still do not have laboratories.