The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor is expected to officially launch National Science Week at the Nelson Mandela University on Saturday.
Pandor will be joined by the Eastern Cape Premier, Phumulo Masualle and NMU's Vice-Chancellor, Derrick Swartz, at the Missionvale Campus.
Science Week is an annual celebration of science, engineering aand technology under the theme "Advancing Science Tourism.
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Science and Technology, Lunga Ngqengelele, said the theme is in recognition of the United Nation's International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development.
"NSW is an annual celebration of science, engineering and technology, attracting thousands of learners and members of the public to workshops, science shows and lectures, which are held at universities, schools, science centres and public facilities countrywide" he said.
Ngqengelele said the programme, which runs from 4 to 12 August, will include more than 80 exhibits which will showcase the value of science to society in line with the theme.
The launch is expected to be attended by more 3500 learners, 600 students and academics with a 1000 more participants including teachers and the general public.
Ngqengelele said the learners will be provided with career guidance in the science related field.
The Department is also calling on all South African's to visit science centres across the country which will also host activities to commemorate National Science Week.
"We are asking them to visit science centres and universities across the country. We are hosting activities related to Science Week or they can go to the Department of Technology website on www.dst.gov.za to find a list of all the places that are participating in Science Week" Ngqengelele said.
