By Mathipa Phishego and Arnold Nkuna
Bringing energy, expertise, and innovation, the Tshwane University of Technology’s Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FoICT) from the eMalahleni and Soshanguve South campuses lit up the 2025 National Science Week at the bustling Mkhondo Science Centre in Piet Retief, Mpumalanga, from 4 to 9 August. The annual Department of Education initiative inspires learners nationwide to explore and embrace the exciting world of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
This year’s NSW drew participation from a wide range of schools across Mpumalanga, including Mkhondo Combined School, Piet Retief High School and Mandla Mthethwa Secondary School. Adding an exciting international dimension, several schools from neighbouring Eswatini, such as Mhlatane High School and Ngwane Central High also joined the exhibition, showcasing the event’s growing regional influence. The presence of these schools underscored the importance of cross-border collaboration in promoting STEM education and fostering a shared vision for innovation across Southern Africa.
Siyabonga Mthombeni, Student Support Coordinator and Matthews Mfati, a Student Recruiter, led engaging career guidance sessions, helping learners understand the pathways into ICT disciplines such as Computer Science, Computer Systems Engineering, Informatics, Information Technology and Multimedia Computing. “We saw learners light up when they realised that the technology they interact with daily can be something they build and innovate themselves,” said Mthombeni.
The Faculty’s presence was part of a broader collaboration with other universities and technical institutions, including the University of Mpumalanga and Vaal University of Technology. These partnerships enabled a rich exchange of ideas and resources, reinforcing the collective mission to make STEM education accessible and inspiring.
“National Science Week is more than just a career expo. It’s a platform for mutual learning and knowledge exchange. We had the opportunity to learn from fellow exhibitors in areas ranging from chemistry and technology to cybersecurity and network systems,” Mthombeni added.
To encourage active participation, the Faculty distributed educational merchandise such as branded notebooks, USB drives and coding kits to learners who engaged with the exhibits. These incentives not only rewarded curiosity but also served as tools to continue learning beyond the event.
The event was endorsed by newly appointed Mpumalanga Minister of Education, Lindi Masina, who praised the collaborative spirit of the initiative. “We are grateful to all institutions that have joined us in advocating for education and supporting science, technology, engineering and innovation. Your collaboration plays a critical role in building a scientifically literate and critically engaged society, one capable of understanding and addressing the complex challenges of our time,” Minister Masina said during her address.
National Science Week continues to be a cornerstone for raising awareness around STEM fields and strengthening the pipeline from school to higher education. The Faculty of ICT’s vibrant participation reaffirms Tshwane University of Technology’s commitment to community engagement, academic excellence, and the cultivation of future innovators.
Showcasing TUT built machines to the Mpumalanga Education Minister and Mkhondo Royal King