The two-day event brought science beyond the classroom through hands-on activities, interactive exhibitions, career talks and discussions on issues affecting communities in the Eastern Cape.
The University’s Faculty of Science, together with its partners and collaborators, brought scientists, researchers, universities, government departments and industry representatives together to create an immersive science experience for learners from rural communities.
Held under the national theme, “Science, Technology and Innovation are for Everyone,” the programme was organised in collaboration with the Peddie Circuit Management Centre (CMC), and in partnership with the National Research Foundation – South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA), the Eastern Cape Socio-Economic Consultative Council (ECSECC) and Uchumo Sizwe.
The universities included also Walter Sisulu, Venda and Rhodes.
National Science Month promotes awareness and appreciation of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation (STEMI), also encouraging young people to consider careers in these fields.
For the Faculty of Science, it also reflected Mandela University’s commitment to taking science engagement beyond the University campus and connecting communities directly with scientists, academics and professionals.
Learners attending the National Science Month programme at Ntyatyambo Primary School, Peddie.
Taking science beyond the classroom
Learners engaged with scientific concepts through interactive displays, live demonstrations and practical activities. Exhibitions introduced them to fields including chemistry, physics, earth sciences, biodiversity, coding, robotics, environmental sustainability and agricultural innovation.
Learners exploring interactive science exhibits during the Peddie flagship programme
Exploring science through local challenges
The programme also featured panel discussions on issues relevant to communities in the Eastern Cape, demonstrating how science, research and innovation can contribute to sustainable development and economic opportunities.
One session, “The Ocean Economy: Unlocking Opportunities for Coastal Communities,” explored the potential of the ocean economy to support sustainable development and create opportunities for coastal communities.
Session One panellists, including Reverend Weziwe Williams, and Mandela University’s Lubabalo Saba, Prof Nkululeko Nyangiwe Dr Buyiswa Hlangothi, Dr Ongama Mtimka, Dr Malwande Nkalitshana and Prof Zenixole Tshentu
A second panel examined food distribution markets for small-scale farmers in the Eastern Cape, focusing on challenges, such as limited production volumes, infrastructure constraints, high transport costs and access to formal markets. Panellists also discussed the role of farmer associations, cooperatives, technology and youth participation in strengthening the agricultural sector.
Session Two panellists including Mandela University’s Mr Saba, Prof Nyangiwe, Dr Hlangothi, Dr Ayanda Kwaza and Prof Tshentu
The third panel focused on bioprospecting and indigenous knowledge systems, highlighting South Africa’s biodiversity and the responsible use of indigenous biological resources. The discussion explored opportunities to develop products for sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture and cosmetics, also ensuring that communities benefit from the commercial use of their traditional knowledge.
Session Three panellists including Mandela University’s Mr Saba, Dr Hlangothi and Prof Tshentu
Together, these discussions demonstrated that science can help address challenges involving food security, environmental sustainability, economic development, livelihoods and the responsible use of natural resources.
Inspiring future scientists
Career guidance gave learners an opportunity to engage with University representatives and professionals from various sectors.
Career talks presented by Lulutho Dingiswayo and Nosipho Ndlovu from Emthonjeni Student Wellness.
Learners were introduced to study opportunities, career pathways and the wide range of professions available in STEMI fields, helping them to understand the educational pathways needed to pursue their aspirations and consider further study in science-related disciplines.
For learners from rural communities, such direct interactions provided valuable exposure to careers and educational opportunities.
A spectacular scientific finale
The programme concluded with an engaging chemistry demonstration show facilitated by Dr Buyiswa Hlangothi and presented by Dr Gletwyn Rubidge of Mandela University.
Chemistry demonstration show by Dr Gletwyn Rubidge.
The show brought chemistry to life through visual and practical demonstrations, including fuel combustion, rocket propulsion, the Whoosh Bottle, flame excitation for elemental analysis, Jacob’s Ladder, the Genie in a Bottle reaction, the Dragon’s Beard phenomenon, laser technology, and the Yellow Dragon and Blue Dog demonstrations.
The energetic finale showed learners that science can be creative, visual and exciting, while also being closely connected to real-world applications.
Collaboration at the heart of science engagement
The Peddie programme demonstrated the value of collaboration among higher education institutions, government, research organisations, industry and community stakeholders.
Sakhumzi Seyisi of the Department of Education and Prof Tshentu
The participation of 31 exhibitors and multiple partner organisations created a diverse learning environment where learners could interact with professionals, explore scientific disciplines and gain first-hand exposure to STEMI careers.
The programme also advanced the University’s Science for Society agenda by taking science engagement directly into communities, particularly rural areas.
For the Faculty of Science, the Peddie flagship programme demonstrated that science engagement is about creating opportunities for young people to ask questions, discover possibilities and see themselves as future scientists, innovators and problem-solvers.
National Science Month 2026 showed what is possible when schools, communities, universities, government and science partners work together. In Peddie, science became more than something that learners study - it became something they could experience, explore and imagine themselves being part of.