https://www.engineeringnews.co.za
Building|Engineering|PROJECT|Technology|Training
Building|Engineering|PROJECT|Technology|Training
building|engineering|project|technology|training

UJ launches STEM education initiative for high schools

16th February 2024

By: Schalk Burger

Creamer Media Senior Deputy Editor

     

Font size: - +

The University of Johannesburg (UJ), in partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE), has launched a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiative that will bolster expertise among science educators and empower high school learners.

The initiative will employ a multifaceted strategy that includes teacher development workshops, and on-site school visits nationwide. It will start with chemistry and the UJ Department of Chemical Sciences, the university says.

The initiative's key role is to equip learners from historically disadvantaged backgrounds with essential practical experience, which is crucial for higher education success, says UJ Faculty of Science executive dean Professor Annah Moteetee.

“Prioritising mentorship and curriculum support across all levels is crucial. Our initiative focuses on laying the foundational skills necessary for pursuing STEM fields, fostering inclusivity and unlocking untapped potential,” she says.

“Supported by key stakeholders including industry, private partners and the DBE, UJ's efforts signify a strategic partnership poised to drive educational advancement nationwide,” Moteetee adds.

The Department of Chemical Sciences has additionally committed to address systemic challenges hindering students' university transition.

In acknowledging resource disparities, UJ aims to bridge the gap by providing access to essential laboratory facilities and tailored support mechanisms. This initiative amplifies and extends the reach of UJ’s Soweto Science Centre by catering to students and teachers in Gauteng, the university says.

Additionally, UJ has also developed plans to ensure the project's sustainability and long-term impact, highlights UJ Department of Chemical Sciences project manager and lecturer Dr Mathapelo Seopela.

“Our strategy involves expanding the project to guarantee its sustainability and enduring effects. In provinces where schools are identified, we will establish training centres tailored for teachers and subject specialists.

“We will also enlist unemployed postgraduate education graduates to augment school staff and ensure continuity, with learners advancing while teachers and subject specialists remain. Additionally, we aim to diversify the project's focus beyond chemistry to embrace all facets of STEM education, and facilitating its expansion to more schools and provinces,” she says.

The intention is to further develop the project to extend assistance to schools and learners beyond the realm of chemistry alone. The aim is to ensure that all aspects of STEM education receive the attention they deserve. This expansion will also facilitate the project's rollout to additional schools and provinces soon, Seopela explains.

“By championing innovative teaching methods and actively engaging with the community, UJ demonstrates its commitment to nation-building and societal empowerment,” Moteetee says.

Edited by Chanel de Bruyn
Creamer Media Senior Deputy Editor Online

Comments

Showroom

Environmental Assurance (Pty) Ltd.
Environmental Assurance (Pty) Ltd.

ENVASS is a customer and solutions-driven environmental consultancy with established divisions, serviced by highly qualified and experienced...

VISIT SHOWROOM 
Aqs image
AQS Liquid Transfer

AxFlow AQS Liquid Transfer (Pty) Ltd is an Importer and Distributor of Pumps in Southern Africa

VISIT SHOWROOM 

Latest Multimedia

sponsored by

Magazine round up | 04 October 2024
Magazine round up | 04 October 2024
4th October 2024

Option 1 (equivalent of R125 a month):

Receive a weekly copy of Creamer Media's Engineering News & Mining Weekly magazine
(print copy for those in South Africa and e-magazine for those outside of South Africa)
Receive daily email newsletters
Access to full search results
Access archive of magazine back copies
Access to Projects in Progress
Access to ONE Research Report of your choice in PDF format

Option 2 (equivalent of R375 a month):

All benefits from Option 1
PLUS
Access to Creamer Media's Research Channel Africa for ALL Research Reports, in PDF format, on various industrial and mining sectors including Electricity; Water; Energy Transition; Hydrogen; Roads, Rail and Ports; Coal; Gold; Platinum; Battery Metals; etc.

Already a subscriber?

Forgotten your password?

MAGAZINE & ONLINE

SUBSCRIBE

RESEARCH CHANNEL AFRICA

SUBSCRIBE

CORPORATE PACKAGES

CLICK FOR A QUOTATION







sq:0.251 0.299s - 207pq - 2rq
Subscribe Now