The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Student Recruitment unit successfully hosted its Third Annual Science Show on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, at the Sibusisiwe Community Hall in Mandeni, iLembe District. The vibrant event attracted over 700 Grade nine and Grade 12 learners from eight different high schools aimed to encourage young people to pursue mathematics and science by showing them the exciting career opportunities available in the STEM fields.
The Science Show was directed by Student Recruitment Officer, Michael Zulu, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. The programme began with a warm welcome from the iLembe District official, Mr Madele, who thanked DUT and Mandeni Municipality for hosting the Science Show. He urged learners to seize the opportunity with seriousness, reminding them that this was their chance to learn more about their future paths.
Ward Councillor Mr Thwala also expressed gratitude to DUT for bringing the initiative to Mandeni, encouraging Grade 12 learners to remain focused and committed to their studies so they could secure admission into universities.
Highlighting the importance of the event, DUT Student Recruitment Manager, Mr Alex Mdletshe, explained that the Science Show was a response to the worrying decline in learners choosing science subjects. “This does not only affect DUT, it affects industries and the entire South African economy. If fewer learners do science, it creates a chain reaction fewer science graduates, fewer skilled professionals, and eventually, higher unemployment because everyone ends up doing the same courses. We need more scientists, engineers, and innovators to balance our country’s economy,” Mdletshe explained. He assured learners that DUT was committed to guiding them toward better subject choices. “We are here to help you choose wisely and start building the foundation of your future,” said Mdletshe.
Learners were further inspired by testimonies from students and alumni who had walked the same path. Tayyab Mohammad, a second-year Homeopathy student at DUT, reminded them that succeeding in science is possible, saying that with focus and hard work, it can be achieved.
One of the most powerful moments of the day came from DUT alumna, Zine Fikeni, now a Senior Manager for Environmental Health Services at King Cetshwayo Municipality. She shared her journey, explaining how studying for a Diploma in Environmental Studies at DUT changed her life. “Environmental health is not just a career, it is about solving real problems in our communities. If you take Mathematics and Science, your chances of finding meaningful work after graduating are very high because these careers are in demand,” said Zine.
Among the many inspiring speakers who motivated the learners was DUT Chiropractic alumna, Dr Khanyi Khumalo. Her message reinforced the importance of science-related studies, as she shared how her career journey created opportunities and growth. She encouraged learners to remain committed to their studies, proving that a strong foundation in science can open doors to professional success.
Adding an element of excitement, Chemistry students Thobelani Radebe and Thubelihle Hadebe from the Faculty of Applied Sciences performed captivating live experiments. Learners watched in awe as the duo demonstrated chemical reactions and explained what studying Chemistry at DUT involves, showing that science is both practical and enjoyable.
The importance of mathematics was strongly underlined during the lively mathematics quiz competitions, which became one of the highlights of the Science Show event. The quiz was led by Professor Deonarain Brijlall from the Department of Mathematics at DUT, who challenged learners to think critically and apply their knowledge in real-time. Separate contests were held for Grade 9 and Grade 12 learners, with each school nominating one representative. The atmosphere was electric as learners cheered for their peers in a fast-paced 20-minute challenge. In the end, the winners proudly walked away with Samsung tablets as their prizes, celebrating both their hard work and the value of mathematics in shaping future careers.
Pictured: Mathematics quiz competition winners.
Grade 12 learner, Lethukuthula Malunga, from Udumo Secondary School, was thrilled after winning the Mathematics quiz. “I am very happy for this opportunity. It was an eye-opening event, and I am so grateful for the gift I received. This has motivated me even more, and next year I want to study Environmental Studies at DUT,” he said.
Grade nine learner, Anamile Manqele, from Mbuyiselo High School, also expressed her joy after winning the Maths quiz competition. “I used to doubt myself in Mathematics, but today has shown me that I can do it. I now know that next year I will choose the Science path,” she said.
Zulu kept the audience engaged throughout the day by asking learners stimulating questions, encouraging interaction, and rewarding them with calculators to support their academic growth. His lively energy kept learners alert and motivated.
The event also showcased the future of technology through a presentation by Ebrahim Asmal from DUT, who introduced learners to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). He demonstrated how robotics, artificial intelligence, and smart manufacturing are shaping industries, emphasising that these fields all depend on Mathematics and Science. Learners were fascinated when Asmal revealed two robots that acted like humans, proving that advanced technology is within reach for those who pursue STEM subjects.
The day concluded with an energetic and entertaining demonstration by Professor Megandhren Govender, whose interactive experiments wowed the learners. With humour and creativity, he showed that science can be both practical and fun. From unexpected reactions to exciting visual effects, his demonstrations brought the entire hall to life. Learners left not only informed but also inspired, with many remarking that they had never seen science presented in such an engaging way.
The event was further supported by the Faculty of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Student Admissions, and the Central Applications Office (CAO), who were present to provide learners with information about courses at DUT that require Mathematics and Science, as well as guidance on careers and the application process.
Pictured: High School learners participating on Professor Megandhren Govender practical experiments.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Sinamile Sithole
