June 26, 2003
By Tendai Dhliwayo
GAUTENG education department plans to build a multi-million rand science exploration centre in the Newtown precinct in Joburg, aimed at increasing the number of science and maths graduates.
The R150-million Sci-Bono Discovery Centre at the Electric Workshop, opening in December, is expected to be a significant resource to schools for the delivery of Curriculum 2005, particularly in the teaching of mathematics, science and technology. The project will be built in phases over the next three years, the provincial education department said in a statement.
"The project is aimed at increasing the number of science and maths graduates in five years. There is a need to educate our primary school learners to approach these subjects with less fear," said Gauteng education MEC, Ignatius Jacobs.
A variety of fun and interactive displays, exhibits and experiments will turn the venue into an edutainment centre for learners from primary to tertiary level. Learners, assisted by in-house tutors, will be able "to test and experience scientific theories they read about in textbooks".
"It will also enrich and empower educators, who will benefit from the in-house tutors," said Gauteng Department of Education chief executive, Mallele Petje.
Once the centre is up and running, a structured programme will be put into place for learners and advanced booking will be necessary, according to Petje. The centre plans "to get as many schools as possible to visit", and "a reasonable entrance fee" will be charged.
Besides being a learning zone, the centre will offer leisure opportunities to the public and "will have the potential to attract tourists", said Petje.
Aside from the 6 000 square metres of interactive space, and a career and education centre, the complex will also house commercial and retail facilities, science and technology education office hubs, science shops, and restaurants.
The edutainment centre, excluding the career and resource centres, is expected to cater for 650 000 visitors a year: 335 000 learners from various school groups and another 315 000 visitors.
The centre, according to Gauteng's Department of Education, will strive to become a national flagship for science and technology.
