Kariega, Eastern Cape - The Nelson Mandela Bay Science & Technology Centre (NMBSTC), managed by the Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA), marked a significant milestone on the 24th of May as it celebrated its 10th anniversary of inspiring young minds in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation. The Science Centre has been a beacon of knowledge, nurturing curiosity and fostering a love for STEM subjects among the youth of Nelson Mandela Bay.
Since its inception a decade ago, the Science Centre has served as an instrumental platform for engaging students from all backgrounds in hands-on learning experiences. By providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and interactive exhibits, the Centre has successfully transformed the way young people perceive science and technology, encouraging them to explore the possibilities these fields offer.
As a testament to its commitment to excellence, the NMBSTC proudly holds a level-2 accreditation by the Department of Science and Innovation. This prestigious recognition classifies the centre as an emerging science centre, showcasing its dedication to providing high-quality educational experiences and promoting scientific literacy within the community.
The success and growth of the Science Centre would not have been possible without the steadfast support it has received since its inception from the South African Agency for Science & Technology Advancement (SAASTA) and other partners such as the Volkswagen group. Their continuous backing and investment in the Centre’s initiatives have played a pivotal role in its ability to offer cutting-edge programmes, state-of-the-art facilities, and access to a wide range of resources to inspire and empower the youth.
Commenting on the momentous occasion, the committee chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Bay Science & Technology Centre, Ms. Noxolo Kahlana, expressed her pride in the centre’s achievements over the past decade. She stated, "As we celebrate our 10-year anniversary, we reflect on the incredible impact the Science & Technology Centre has had on our community. Through our innovative programmes and initiatives, we have been able to ignite a passion for science and technology in the hearts of countless young individuals, empowering them to pursue careers in these critical fields. We are proud to have played a role in shaping the future of our learners."
The Science & Technology Centre Manager, Ms Singathwa Poswa emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of curiosity and critical thinking amongst the youth. She said, "The last 10 years have been a remarkable journey for the Nelson Mandela Bay Science & Technology Centre. We have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of providing young minds with access to engaging, hands-on experiences that spark their interest in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation. By nurturing their innate curiosity and providing them with a platform to explore their potential, we are building a foundation for a future generation that will drive innovation and make a positive impact on our society."
Over the past decade, the Nelson Mandela Bay Science & Technology Centre has touched the lives of thousands of students through its diverse range of educational programmes, workshops, and exhibitions. By collaborating with schools, universities, and industry partners, the centre is bridging the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that young individuals are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the 21st-century job market.
Looking ahead, the Science & Technology Centre plans to expand its outreach efforts, reaching even more students and communities within the Nelson Mandela Bay region. By continuously adapting to the evolving needs of the education landscape, the Centre aims to remain at the forefront of inspiring young minds, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of science and technology.