Learners interested in ICT related courses with brochures in their hands.
The need to present such a workshop was sparked by a realisation that the rapid global technological and industrial advancements require the youth to be equipped with the relevant skills to embrace the current and future technological and industrial revolution.
Providing STEM-related training, is but one way of preparing them for the future world of work. A major benefit of STEM Education is its heavy emphasis on the training of learners in four disciplines – Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, which will prepare and enable learners to become future global innovators, while also sparking their interests in engineering, natural science, computer science, architecture, robotics and a plethora of other fields of high technological and industrial value currently.
The facilitators included Tumelo Malebane and Lesetja Sekhaolelo from the Department of Computer Science, Mpumelelo Mlonzi from the Department of Engineering, Dr Mabuatsela V Maphoru from the Department of Chemistry and Danny Ramollo from Student Development and Support Services.
Tumelo Malebane said that equipping learners with digital skills and information will help them to see beyond their current circumstances and environment.
“This can help spark the mind of a future engineer or the next Elon Musk. We firmly believe that bringing such knowledge to young people can really help steer them in the right direction, which is needed to push the country and economy forward. Tata loved kids so much, therefore it made perfect sense to give back on this day to celebrate Mandela Day,” he added.
Facilitators from left is Tumelo Malebane, Mpumelelo Mlonzi, Mabuatsela Maphori and Lesetja Sekhaolelo.
Mabuatsela Maphoru from the Department of Chemistry alongside Thabiso Thukwane, a PhD candidate from the Department of Chemistry, took the learners through the synthesis of making an asprin, soap and silver chloride.
The learners were also introduced to the basic concepts of coding through a platform and programming language known as Scratch. They programmed a smart circuit, known as a Micro:bit using Microsoft MakeCode. This device is geared towards learning coding and robotics.
According to Mpumelelo Mlonzi, the aim of this outreach was to give guidance and provide an understanding of choosing STEM subjects when the learners get to higher education levels. “Electrical wise, I presented components and parameters involved in bulbs, resistors and electricity to them.”
The event did not only focus on “TechnoScience” but also on creating awareness about cyberbullying, which is becoming increasingly problematic for children and adults alike, especially since it is enabled through easy access to mobile technology and social networks.
Danny Ramollo from Student Development Support (SDS) also discussed the psychological impact and dangers of cyberbullying with learners.
“Know yourself and take care of your emotions. Be careful not to resort to bullying instead of communicating your emotions,” he emphasised.
Rorisang Molapo, one of the learners shared a few words of gratitude with the team for the knowledge and skills shared.