Science came alive for more than 1500 learners from schools across the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District when the North-West University (NWU) hosted its fourth annual Vice-Chancellor's Science Day at Hoërskool Wolmaransstad, exposing young people to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers while bringing university expertise directly to communities.
Held on 5 August under the national theme, "Science, technology and innovation are for everyone", the event formed part of National Science Month and built on the success of previous Science Days hosted in Mabeskraal (2023), Taung (2024) and Kuruman (2025). The annual programme rotates to different communities to extend access to science education beyond the university's campuses.
Delivering the keynote address, NWU principal and vice-chancellor Prof. Bismark Tyobeka said the university's responsibility extends beyond teaching and research. "We have come to you. We have brought our scientists, lecturers, students, laboratories, demonstrations, academic pathways and partners into this community because access to knowledge must be experienced, not simply promised.
Prof. Tyobeka said the Science Day demonstrates the university's commitment to social impact by ensuring that learners, regardless of where they live, have opportunities to engage with science and explore future careers.
He encouraged learners to interact with exhibitors throughout the day: "Do not walk past an exhibition as a spectator. Stop. Ask a question. Touch what you are permitted to touch. Test an idea. Speak to a scientist."
The programme combined keynote presentations with practical learning opportunities. Learners visited career exhibitions, participated in science quizzes, puzzles, science shows and debate competitions, while also engaging with NWU faculties, government departments and industry partners showcasing career pathways and scientific applications.
Addressing learners, Prof. Tyobeka reflected on his own journey from a rural village to becoming a nuclear engineer and university vice-chancellor, saying talent exists in every community when supported by opportunity and education.
"A scientist is not defined by accent, address, gender or family income. A scientist is formed through curiosity, method, resilience, integrity and opportunity," he stressed.
He also highlighted the university's academic offerings in natural and agricultural sciences, engineering, health sciences and education, noting planned developments such as the School of Veterinary Sciences, the School of Mines and Mining Engineering and strengthened nuclear engineering programmes. These initiatives, he said, would expand opportunities for future scientists and engineers.
The event concluded with a call for partnerships between universities, schools, government and industry to strengthen science literacy and encourage more young people to pursue STEM studies.
"Science, technology and innovation are for everyone. Therefore, science is for Maquassi Hills. Science is for every school and learner represented here," Prof. Tyobeka concluded.
NWU principal and vice-chancellor Prof. Bismark Tyobeka visits exhibition stalls
during the fourth annual Vice-Chancellor's Science Day at Hoërskool Wolmaransstad.
