The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, hosted the launch of the 25th National Science Week (NSW), one of the Department’s flagship initiatives, on 2 August at the Pretoria Campus.
The event attracted a diverse audience comprising 1 200 learners and showcased more than 80 exhibitions representing tertiary institutions, governmental organisations, private industries and non-governmental organisations.
TUT showcased a range of exciting projects from the Faculties of Science, ICT and the Engineering and Built Environment. Exhibits included the TUT solar car, SunChaser4; the TUT AI Hub – complete with the quadruped-legged robot dog and the humanoid interacting on stage; the TUT/CSIR Cannabis and Hemp Research Hub; and technology stations in electronics and chemicals.
Learners interact with experts at the launch of National Science Week.
Themed “science, technology and innovation are for everyone”, this year’s NSW, which runs from 4 to 9 August, connects all role players in science, technology, engineering and maths to celebrate and promote the joys, uses and contributions of science in our daily lives.
Speaking at the event, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Prof Blade Nzimande, underscored the transformative power of science and innovation in nation-building. He added that his department plans to introduce several initiatives to improve students access to maths and science.
“In 2026, we will introduce what will now be known as National Science Month. This means that this year’s weeklong National Science Week format is the last one and serves as the transition to the month-long programme we intend to introduce next year,” he said.
Prof Nzimade also spoke of plans to upscale the science centres project. “In the past, we donated mobile units in the form of vans which were customised to serve as labs. This intervention has proven to be quite impactful and with the experience we have gathered, we intend to scale up this programme,” he added.
Representing the University, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement, Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, spoke passionately about the contribution of science and innovation to sustainable development.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Prof Blade Nzimande is flanked by TUT Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement, Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, TV presenter, Lizel Wilson, and learners at the launch of National Science Week held at TUT’s Pretoria Campus.
She also said that NSW exemplifies how science in South Africa has become increasingly accessible to the broader public and encouraged learners to pursue studies in science, technology and engineering.
“No longer confined to laboratories or academia, science has steadily become embedded in everyday life through education initiatives, community outreach programmes and advancements that address real-world challenges.
“From technology-driven farming solutions that bolster food security to mobile health innovations improving access to healthcare in remote areas, the progress achieved reflects a transformation in how ordinary South Africans engage with and benefit from science,” said Dr Papu-Zamxaka.
The programme also featured inspiring talks by young professionals such as aircraft technician and graduate of Tshwane North TVET College, Oletilwe Sekokotla and TUT lecturer, Tsholofelo Modise, who shared insights into inclusivity through assistive technologies at TUT’s Artificial Intelligence Hub.
Dr Tsepo Lechaba, Project Manager at the TUT Cannabis and Hemp Research Hub, spoke about the research that the hub is doing on medical cannabis. He said the hub develops a variety of products, including oils to treat skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and alopecia, as well as supplement to manage certain types of health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis and insomnia.
Dr Tsepo Lechaba, Project Manager at the TUT Cannabis and Hemp Research Hub, spoke about the research that the hub is doing on medical cannabis.
“This bag (pictured above) is developed from 100% cannabis fibre; it is so strong it doesn’t tear. We are also developing medical clothing, including scrubs.
“We have a project to develop chicken feed combining cannabis with mopani worms and dragon flies. We are also developing meat [that is] minced meat and wors using cannabis,” he said.
Director-General in the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Mlungisi Cele was the programme director for the day.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, before guests continued to explore the afternoon exhibitions, which demonstrated practical applications of cutting-edge science and technology in diverse sectors.
Minister Nzimande visits some of the exhibitions at the launch.