The Minister of Higher Education and Training Blade Nzimande says the Nelson Mandela University Ocean Sciences Centre represents a beacon of hope for those wishing to further their studies at the institution.
The Minister spoke at the launch of the Ocean Sciences Campus and the opening of residences that will accommodate up to 2000 students.
"I would like to congratulate the university on ensuring that the project came to life. This state-of-the-art science centre will be a legacy for those still to come," says Nzimande.
The 15-meter and 138-seat dome-shaped structure is built on the Ocean Sciences Campus in Gqeberha.
"The Centre is the most sophisticated in the country to date, with only two other comparable ones in Cape Town and Bloemfontein. Its centrepiece is a 15-meter digital dome/auditorium, which offers a unique immersive space for learning and visualising spatial models in an engaging and entertaining format.
"It is akin to an IMAX theatre, but on a grander scale, fully enveloping the viewer. School learners who visit will enjoy a comprehensive tour, including a 3D show featuring videos showcasing topics such as life underwater or the potential for life in outer space," according to NMU.
The project was funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training at a cost of just under R86 million.
Minister @DrBladeNzimande said that the @MandelaUni science centre will expose learners to a multiplicity of careers in the sciences as the country looks into creating more pathways for young people to take this country into the future. pic.twitter.com/fShNbT34zo
— HigherEduTrainingZA (@HigherEduGovZA) March 18, 2024
NMU Vice Chancellor, Professor Sibongile Mutwa said the 'dome' offers an engaging experience and seeks to "soften (the) boundaries" between the studies in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, or soc-called STEM studies.
She added that the Science Centre was established as an expression of the NMU's commitment to being an "engaged institution", dedicated to using its resources, platforms, and students and is committed to building a social justice-oriented learning society.
"It is a dynamic hub designed to cater to learners, students, scholars, academics and the wider public."
The project Manager for the Science Centre Dr Pulleng Moleko-Boyce says the centre was designed to spark an interest in STEM among school learners.
"We are trying to incorporate academic and innovative excellence into schools, that will enable learners to move in the direction of STEM courses."
