In celebration of National Science Month, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Community Engagement Office, in collaboration with the Department of Chemistry and the Mahlabathini Circuit Management Centre (CMC), recently hosted the annual Mahlabathini Science Week in Ulundi.
The five-day programme brought together 1 400 Grade 12 learners from 50 schools across the Mahlabathini Circuit, providing them with an opportunity to strengthen their understanding of Physical Sciences through practical experiments, interactive demonstrations and career guidance. The initiative forms part of DUT’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to quality science education for learners from rural and under resourced communities.
Since its inception, Mahlabathini Science Week has become one of the University’s flagship community engagement initiatives, equipping thousands of learners with the knowledge, confidence and practical skills needed to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The programme bridges the gap between classroom learning and practical scientific application while encouraging learners to view science as an exciting and achievable career pathway.
Throughout the week, learners participated in hands on Chemistry and Physical Sciences experiments facilitated by academic staff and postgraduate students from the Department of Chemistry. The practical sessions enabled learners to observe scientific principles in action, reinforcing classroom concepts while promoting critical thinking, problem solving and scientific curiosity.
In addition to the practical activities, learners attended career guidance sessions that introduced them to the wide range of STEM programmes offered at DUT. Academics shared insights into careers in chemistry, biotechnology and related fields, equipping learners with the information needed to make informed decisions about their future studies.
Chief Education Specialist for the Mahlabathini Circuit Management Centre, Mrs Xoliswa Cele, praised the initiative for its lasting contribution to learner performance and educational development within the district.
“The Circuit Management Centre consists of six circuits, with the Mahlabathini Circuit comprising 50 schools offering Physical Sciences. Every year, our learners attend DUT Science Week during the winter holidays, and we have seen a positive improvement in our Physical Sciences results. We sincerely thank DUT for bringing this initiative to our district. Learners benefit not only from the practical science sessions but also from the career guidance, which inspires them to pursue opportunities in STEM fields.”
Physical Sciences teacher at St Victor High School, Mr Lindokuhle Gabela, described the programme as an invaluable learning experience for both educators and learners.
“We are truly grateful to DUT for hosting this Science Week. Many of these experiments cannot be demonstrated in our schools, so this programme gives our learners a valuable opportunity to experience science in a practical way. It strengthens their understanding of Physical Sciences and motivates them to pursue careers in science. We sincerely appreciate DUT for creating this opportunity for our learners.”
The success of the programme reflects the strong partnership between the Community Engagement Office, the Department of Chemistry and the Mahlabathini Circuit Management Centre. Together, they continue to create meaningful learning opportunities that inspire young people to pursue scientific careers and unlock their full potential.
As National Science Month shines a spotlight on the importance of science and innovation, Mahlabathini Science Week continues to demonstrate how collaboration between higher education institutions and schools can transform lives. Through initiatives such as this, DUT is empowering the next generation of scientists, innovators and problem solvers while advancing its commitment to community engagement, social impact and the aspirations of #ENVISION2030.
Pictured: DUT facilitators Asenathi Sibali and Samora Buthelezi with a learner from Ntsabekhuluma High School conducting a science experiment.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Phumeza Msongelwa
