NSW is an initiative by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to create awareness around science, technology and innovation. The week provides a platform that makes science accessible to the public, educating them about science and technology. The week popularises sciences and encourages learners to take up sciences in school.
Minister of Science and Technology, Ms Naledi Pandor, visited the Missionvale Campus to view some of the innovative inventions and addressed students and learners about the importance of science and technology.
In an Interview with Morning Live, she said: “The nation should focus on science, technology and innovation, but the key objective is to draw more young people to become part of the Science community, for students to remain in BSc, BSc Honours masters and eventually PHD level as researches and innovators.”
With over 100 regional and national exhibitors, the Innovation Office partnered with the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) to showcase the following TIA funded innovations:
• Ncediso – Integrated mobile application developed to upskill care workers in areas where basic healthcare, first aid skills and clinics are scarce.
• Growing-up: Children Building Careers – Computer-based career development learning program.
• Media Player for the blind – Portable media player adapted to allow ease of use for the visually impaired.
• Qbell – Device that assists patients with reduced or no hand/arm function to attract the attention of healthcare workers.
For more information on these projects or National Science Week, please contact us via email (innovation@mandela.ac.za) or telephonically (041 504 4902).
Ohotographed at NSW last week are from left to right: Kagiso Ntanga (TIA), Shalton Mothwa (YTIP): Radio Laptop is a bag that can harvest radio waves to charge small electronic devices), Cynthia Sithole (TIA) and Tebo Mabeba (Innovation Office).