For 24 local school learners, the chance to explore the stars came a little closer to home when they were introduced to astronomy as part of their preparation for this year’s South African Physics Olympiad (SAPHO).

Hosted at the North-West University (NWU), the learners took part in an introductory astronomy session designed to give them a glimpse into a field of science that is not formally taught as part of the school curriculum.

The olympiad, hosted annually by the South African Institute of Physics, gives school learners an opportunity to explore physics beyond what they encounter in the classroom. This year, an astronomy component was introduced to the olympiad, opening the door for learners to engage with a new area of science.

Recognising the value of this opportunity, Prof. Strauss du Toit, a professor in Physics at the NWU, proposed that learners from the local community be supported to take part.

The NWU responded by using its academic expertise and resources to help the learners prepare. During a Saturday morning session, PhD student Thulo Letsele introduced the group to the fundamentals of astronomy, giving them the knowledge and confidence to approach the new component of the Olympiad.

For many of the learners, it was their first formal introduction to astronomy.

The initiative was also supported by Prof. Amare Abebe, director of NWU’s Centre for Space Research and president of the African Astronomical Society. His presence highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for young people to engage with astronomy and science from an early age.

The session went beyond simply teaching learners about the subject. The university also assisted them with entering and participating in the olympiad, helping to remove some of the practical challenges that could have prevented them from taking part.

When the day of the olympiad arrived, the learners returned to campus to complete the 90-minute assessment. With access to computers, reliable internet connectivity and a suitable environment, they were able to participate in the national olympiad without having to worry about the technical requirements.

Reflecting on the initiative, Prof. Abebe described the event as a success, with the hope that similar opportunities can be created in the future.

The initiative highlights the important role universities can play in opening doors to learning beyond the classroom. By sharing its expertise, facilities and resources, the NWU helped local learners experience astronomy and physics in a new way.