This longstanding outreach initiative forms part of the University’s Science Engagement Strategy, driven under the Engagement and Partnerships Portfolio, to take science and higher education into high-performing rural communities, foster interest in STEM careers, and create pathways for learners to access tertiary education.
Mandela University’s delegation
Computer Science (Tangible Africa): Simphiwe Magakwe; Built Environment & Engineering (Human Settlement): Siviwe Vinci and Nqaba Tyali; Agricultural Sciences (George Campus): Clovis Bhiya; Science Marketing Team: Achumile Poni and Dolly Ntintili; Physics Department: Nobom Hashe; Admissions Office: Zukiswa Mbuli and Sihle Khuzwayo; Centre for Broadband Communication (CBC): Vuyani Chipunza; Faculty of Science Representative: Lubabalo Saba; Nelson Mandela University & University of Venda Institutional Representatives: Professors Zenixole Tshentu and Eric Maluta
An outreach rooted in partnership and purpose
Over five days, the multidisciplinary delegation joined by UniVen counterparts and external exhibitors, engaged directly with learners at five host schools:Silemale Secondary School, Luvhivhini Secondary School, Mbilwi Secondary School, Thengwe Secondary School and Mphephu Secondary School
Each day featured structured sessions including subject-specific demonstrations, coding workshops, and interactive exhibitions from departments, such as Physics, Chemistry, Agriculture, Engineering, Computer Science, and more.
A key highlight was the daily presentation about Mandela University as an institution, including a focused introduction to the Faculty of Science and its wide range of academic offerings. This empowered learners with practical knowledge about study options, application processes, and available support services.
Despite initial challenges — such as the absence of screens and projectors — the team adapted swiftly, using laptops and rotating classroom setups to ensure smooth engagement across all sessions.
Beyond the host schools: widening the reach
While five schools served as formal hosts, the outreach extended its impact to learners from 15 additional secondary schools in the district who were present at these engagements. These included: Mphalaleni, Tshidimbini, Mutshutshu, Vhutavhatsindi, Muhanelwa, Thathe, Tombolagole, Bababa, Raluvhimba, Lunwanngwe, Emmanuel Christian School, Swongozwi, Muthuhadini, Sinthumule, and Makhado Comprehensive School.
In total, learners from 20 schools were reached, with over 2,800 learners participating in the outreach, emphasising the scale and inclusive nature of the programme.
Cross-campus collaboration and exhibitors
The University’s delegation comprised staff from George Campus (Agricultural Department), the Science Marketing Team, Computing Sciences (Tangible Africa), Chemistry, the Engineering, Built Environment and Technology Faculty, and other core departments. Representatives from the University of Venda, UNISA, Vuwani Science Resource Centre, and PENREACH further enriched the engagements with exhibits and career advice.
On the final day, the team visited the University of Venda campus, strengthening the strategic partnership and exploring areas of future collaboration in science, agriculture, engineering, and rural innovation.
Feedback and impact
Feedback from learners was overwhelmingly positive. Several learners took to social media to express their gratitude, excitement, and eagerness to pursue studies at Mandela University.
Looking ahead
The outreach reaffirmed Mandela University’s commitment to Science for Society, rural development, and inclusive academic engagement. Key takeaways included the importance of structured planning, clear learner rotations, and the provision of basic AV equipment to support high-quality delivery.
As the Faculty of Science looks to the future, it aims to:
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Expand to more rural districts
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Deepen academic collaboration with UniVen
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Explore additional support and sponsorship for outreach resources
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Track enrolment outcomes of learners impacted by the programme
A legacy in motion
The 2025 Vhembe Outreach was not just a series of school visits — it was a living example of Mandela University’s broader mission to serve society through education, research, and engagement. Through partnerships, passion, and presence, the University and Univen continue to shape the future of science — one learner, one community, and one collaboration at a time.