STELLALANDER-KURUMAN: “You are not too young to invent. You are not too rural to innovate. And you are certainly not too poor to dream big.”
These inspiring words were delivered by North-West University (NWU) Vice-Chancellor Prof. Bismark Tyobeka during the third annual Vice-Chancellor’s Science Day, held at the Thabo Moorosi Multi-Purpose Hall in Mothibistad. The event, hosted under the national theme “Science, Technology and Innovation are for Everyone,” brought science out of the laboratory and directly into the heart of the community.
It aimed to open doors to science careers for learners from under-resourced areas, highlighting NWU’s commitment to inclusive education and the development of future innovators. “We are not just building a smarter nation; we are building a fairer one,” said Prof. Tyobeka. “A nation where science speaks not to people, but with them.” Supported by Anglo American’s Kumba Iron Ore, the day featured robotics demonstrations, interactive science exhibitions, and career talks between scientists and school learners. The initiative seeks to inspire curiosity and provide access to scientific tools and mentorship to learners beyond urban centres. Highlighting the urgent need for change, Prof. Tyobeka shared national economic figures: “South Africa’s unemployment rate stands at 32.6%, and the bottom 40% of our population earn just 11.5% of the national income. The situation is challenging, but we must work harder to change it.” He emphasised that learners in towns like Kathu, Kuruman, and Kimberley are just as eager to innovate as those in Cape Town or even Cambridge. The vice-chancellor also called on national science policy makers to include the voices of marginalised communities. “True progress means every child, regardless of background, has a fair chance to succeed.” Echoing this vision, Prof. David Modise, executive dean of NWU’s Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, stated, “Our goal is to ensure learners here gain the foundational scientific knowledge that empowers them to continue their studies at higher education institutions and then return to uplift their communities.” For many learners, the event was transformative. “Science is like magic,” said Neo Mosala from Tshireletso High School. “It boosts our confidence and shows us we belong in the world of science. Events like this push us to dream bigger and aim higher.” The Science Day formed part of National Science Week (4–9 August) and, as Prof. Tyobeka concluded, was about more than celebration. “Let this day be remembered not just for speeches and selfies,” he urged, “but as the day science truly came home.”
