The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) celebrated National Science Week 2016 in style this year.
Firstly, local school pupils enjoyed access to a fun-filled week of scientific activities run by the Science and Technology Education Centre (STEC@UKZN) on the Westville campus. Staff went the extra mile to keep the 200 Grade 10 and Grade 11 pupils wowed by the whole spectrum of scientific wonders available at UKZN.

Accommodating some 70 learners a day, the programme offered an array of hands-on fun that covered scientific disciplines such as Electrical Engineering, Statistics, Computer Science, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemistry, Physics, Biology and Geology.

For phase two of the week’s campaign, the College organised the highly successful Great UKZN Science Show-Off, aimed at the whole family. This science show saw the famous ‘Dr G’ - aka Dr Megan Govender; ‘Dr T’ – aka Tanja Reinhardt and Mr Ajay Bissessur battle it out on the scientific stage. Their scientific tricks, treats, whooshes and bangs kept the audience amused and amazed.

Ever wanted to make a fire tornado? Or a volcano? Or stab a straw through a potato? Or find out just how smelly chemicals can be? The three scientists made sure that they offered something for everyone as they brought the magic of science to life.

National Science Week is celebrated every year during the first week of August. A Department of Science and Technology initiative, run in partnership with public and private institutions, it aims to further the public’s understanding of science and to advance science and technology within South Africa.