The lectures were aimed at encouraging students to further their studies up to post-graduate level, highlight the contribution of published research undertaken at institutions to evidence-based policy making, and emphasise the role of science in economic development as well as the “International Year of Biodiversity” theme. 

National Science Week is an initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The initiative is managed by SAASTA, a business unit of the National Research Foundation (NRF). It is aimed at highlighting the significant role that science plays in our lives and to encourage young people to enroll for careers in science, engineering and technology.

In addition to lectures, the Quest magazine was showcased at these events with the aim of promoting it to both learners and teachers. Quest: Science for South Africa is a quarterly, popular science magazine directed at a target audience comprising learners, educators and the general public. It aims to present the country’s foremost scientific work in an accessible form. It is widely distributed to public high schools with science departments and at national science events. 

Universities of Technology were targeted for 2010 and the following areas were visited:

Gauteng: Tshwane University of Techonology, Pretoria, Arcadia, Soshanguve and Garankuwa, campuses as well as the Vaal University of Technology

Mpumalanga: Tshwane University of Techonology, Emalahleni and Nelspruit campuses 

KwaZulu Natal: Durban University of Technology

Eastern Cape: Walter Sisulu University

Limpopo: Tshwane University of Techonology, Polokwane Campus

North West: North West University, Potchefstroom Campus

Northern Cape: National Institute of Higher Education

Free State: Central University of Technology

Western Cape: Cape Peninsula University of Technology

The Speakers were:

Drs Thandi Mgwebi, Stanely Liphadzi, Nomusa Dlodlo, Nthabiseng Taole, Linda Fick, Regina Maphanga, Velaphi Msimang, Sibusiso Sifunda; Thulani Dlamini; Bridgette Farham; Carol Nokwelo and Bheki Radebe

Prof’s Fred Otieno, Daniel Makinde, Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, Sibusiso Moyo; Richard Fuggle; Tshilidzi Marwala; Esta van Heerden, Mr Sershen Naidoo, Mr Maximus Sefotho and Mr Xolani Duba.

This year’s science week was launched in the Northern Cape province by DST Minister, Naledi Pandor. Through ASSAf’s regional mentorship lecture approach, which targeted both learners and educators, scientist were able to interact with learners, provide guidance on science-based careers, and understand some of the challenges that are facing educators within the science system in South Africa. This also provided an opportunity to increase the awareness of ASSAf among learners, educators, and other key stakeholders.