Mr. Thato Mota, 4th Year CUT Technology Education SI Leader, conducting a practical technology exercise with learners from Hohle Primary School in one of CUT’s Technology labs.

On 6 June 2025, The CUT Department of Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education (MSTE) hosted approximately 104 Grade 7 Natural Sciences and Technology learners from Hohle Primary School in Botshabelo for an engaging Science Laboratory and Technology Workshop experience.

The initiative, driven by Ms Nthabeleng Mphirime, an educator at Hohle Primary and a proud CUT Science Education alumna, was designed to ignite interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers among young learners. Through hands-on experiments and exposure to real academic and technical environments, the workshop aimed to make science and technology perceptible and exciting for learners.

Dr Happy Phage, Senior Lecturer in Physics and Science Education, welcomed the initiative, emphasising its alignment with the university's commitment to community engagement, graduate attributes, and Vision 2030.

“Hosting the learners in our state-of-the-art labs provided an opportunity to give back to the community and to inspire both current and future learners to pursue academic careers in STEM. It also allows them to see various scientific instruments, observe proper laboratory practices and experience the look and feel of a university. Early academic and workplace exposure makes a lasting impression on young scholars. It shows that MSTE is not only committed to training teachers but is also deeply focused on the educational and sustainable development (ESD) of communities and the empowerment of youth and future leaders,” said Dr. Phage, reflecting on the profound impact the workshop had on the learners.

Upon arrival, learners and their educators were divided into smaller, manageable groups and briefed on safety protocols and procedures specific to laboratory and workshop environments to ensure an incident-free and enriching day. The groups rotated between science and chemistry laboratories and Technology workshops, ensuring that each learner received a full and interactive experience of both disciplines.

The orientation was met with enthusiasm from both learners and educators, with many highlighting the value of experiencing university-level science and technology education first-hand.

The event marks another significant milestone in CUT’s ongoing efforts to strengthen community relationships and cultivate the next generation of scientists, technologists, and educators.

Grade 7 learners from Hohle Primary School during their chemistry laboratory session.

Uploaded: 13 June 2025