In a vibrant celebration of Youth Month, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Community Engagement unit recently hosted a successful Youth in STEAM Day at the Steve Biko Campus in Durban. The event brought together enthusiastic learners from Sithengile Secondary School, along with participants from the Ikamva Youth Programme and the Umkhumbane Schools Project, for a day of inspiration, innovation and discovery in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
The day began with a warm welcome from Ms Phumzile Xulu, Engagement Practitioner at the DUT Community Engagement. She encouraged learners to absorb the knowledge shared during the event and underscored the growing importance of the STEM fields, particularly in light of the rise of artificial intelligence.
“The world is changing rapidly. It is important that we use critical knowledge and critical thinking to adapt and lead in this evolving landscape,” said Xulu
One of the highlights was a presentation by Dr Bongumenzi Mncwango, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Industrial Engineering. He introduced learners to the world of industrial engineering, with a focus on manufacturing, lean systems, and supply chains. Dr Mncwango explained how engineering is all about improving systems and solving real-world problems. He also offered guidance on subjects required for pursuing engineering and outlined the various disciplines within the field.
Adding a social innovation lens to the day was Dr Nokuthula Mavela from DUT’s Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching. Her session on “Developing Innovative and Sustainable Products for Social Impact” encouraged learners to become change-makers.
“We must solve our own problems as society, as Africa,” said Dr Mavela. She introduced the concept of design thinking and urged girls in particular not to be discouraged by gender stereotypes in STEM fields.
Dr Farai Dziike from the DUT’s Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI), impressed the audience with a presentation on transforming biodegradable material into building materials, a clear example of science meeting sustainability. He emphasised the need for students to grow into adaptive graduates.
“We don’t want people to study just to find jobs. People must study to innovate and create jobs,” said Dr Dziike.
The day also included a moving performance by DUT drama students, focusing on the role of youth and the power of education. The event concluded with an exciting live science demonstration by the DUT Chemistry Department, where learners got hands-on exposure to chemical experiments in a real lab setting.
Learners were visibly inspired by the day’s experiences. Nkanyiso Ntombela from Sithengile Secondary School said, “I learned that anyone can choose from a variety of subjects in order to pursue a career of their choice.”
Anele Xulu from Wiggins Secondary School, shared that the performance really excited her. “I also study dramatic arts at school and would love to pursue it in university,” she said.
Melokuhle Dlala, from Umkhumbane Secondary School, expressed his ambition to become a problem-solver.
“I want to be innovative and be part of the solution, not the problem. I am grateful to DUT for this wonderful experience and hope to be a student here in the future,” he said
Pictured: Learners who attended the Youth in STEAM Day.
Phumeza Msongelwa
