Seen Here: Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Prof. Blade Nzimande engages with learners and stakeholders during his visit to the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in Johannesburg, where he reaffirmed government’s commitment to advancing STEM education, strengthening science centres, and fostering innovation-led industrialisation. The visit also marked South Africa’s inaugural National Science Month, highlighting the critical role of science in shaping the nation’s future. Photo Credit: Lonwabo Mtyeku
South Africa’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has unveiled an ambitious vision to strengthen the country’s science ecosystem, positioning the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre as a catalyst for innovation, scientific literacy and economic development.
Speaking during a visit to the Newtown-based science centre on Friday as part of South Africa’s inaugural National Science Month, Nzimande reaffirmed government’s commitment to expanding public engagement with science while calling for stronger collaboration between government, academia, industry and the private sector.
The visit marked the official launch of National Science Month, which replaces the long-running National Science Week programme that has been led by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) since 2000.
“National Science Month reflects our strategic commitment to significantly enhance public awareness of the transformative work driven by South Africa’s public science institutions,” Nzimande said.
Sci-Bono hailed as a national leader
The Minister praised Sci-Bono Discovery Centre for its long-standing contribution to science education, describing it as one of South Africa’s premier science centres.
He commended the institution for consistently supporting national science initiatives and remaining a key partner in promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.
“Sci-Bono has consistently hosted National Science Week activities and has continued supporting our transition to National Science Month. It remains one of our country’s leading science centres because of the quality of its services, its extensive exhibitions and its dedicated human resources,” he said.
The Department has provided grant funding for science engagement programmes through the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) under the National Research Foundation (NRF) for more than two decades, with Sci-Bono being one of the regular beneficiaries.
Inspiration from China
Nzimande’s visit to Sci-Bono followed his recent official trip to China, where he toured the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum and the Shanghai Astronomy Museum.
He described witnessing thousands of adults and children actively engaging with interactive, AI-powered exhibitions as a powerful reminder of the role science centres can play in shaping future generations.
“The experience reinforced my belief that we must cultivate the same excitement and appreciation for science here in South Africa,” he said.
The Minister noted that the Chinese institutions combine scientific history with cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, astronomy, quantum mechanics and physics, creating immersive educational experiences that inspire curiosity across all age groups.
Investing in young scientists
Nzimande highlighted the Department’s ongoing investment in youth development through a programme that places unemployed STEM graduates at science institutions across the country.
Since its introduction during the 2007/08 financial year, the initiative has enabled graduates to gain practical workplace experience while helping science centres strengthen their operational capacity.
Sci-Bono has been one of the programme’s consistent host institutions, with the Department covering monthly stipends for participating graduates.
“This programme aligns with the National Youth Policy by providing meaningful opportunities for graduates while strengthening science centres that serve our communities,” he said.
Sustainable future for science centres
Acknowledging the financial challenges confronting science centres nationwide, Nzimande revealed that discussions are underway between the Department and Sci-Bono to develop a sustainable partnership model that will ensure the institution continues delivering on its mandate.
He said the Department remains committed to supporting science centres through structured funding, accreditation and development programmes aimed at improving operational standards across the national network.
The Minister also reaffirmed government’s commitment to using innovation as a driver of economic growth through closer collaboration with industry.
Johannesburg innovation forum proposed
Among the major announcements was Nzimande’s proposal to establish a Johannesburg Science, Technology and Innovation Forum, which would unite universities, research institutions, businesses, industry and government to accelerate innovation-led development in the city.
He said South Africa’s National System of Innovation remains well coordinated at national level but lacks strong structures at provincial and municipal levels.
“A Johannesburg Science, Technology and Innovation Forum could play a catalytic role by strengthening collaboration, improving coordination and advancing innovation-driven development at the local level,” he said.
The Minister added that government is also exploring the establishment of science and technology parks within South Africa’s Special Economic Zones as part of broader efforts to promote innovation-driven industrialisation.
Discussions with Sasol and other strategic partners are already underway.
Building a science-driven nation
Concluding his address, Nzimande stressed that government cannot build a globally competitive science and innovation ecosystem on its own.
Instead, he called for stronger partnerships between public institutions, science centres, academia, municipalities and the private sector to ensure that innovation becomes a key driver of inclusive economic growth.
“As a Department, we cannot bridge this gap alone. We need dedicated partners. Institutions like Sci-Bono, working alongside provincial and local government, have a pivotal role to play in helping South Africa achieve this important national objective,” he said.
The Minister’s visit underscores government’s renewed focus on making science more accessible to all South Africans while positioning innovation as a cornerstone of the country’s future economic and social development.
