Mdamsteda participates in NSW 2005

The Mdantsane Maths, Science and Technology Educators Development Association (Mdamsteda) helped the East London district's Department of Education to hold the National Science Week for 2005. This annual event, known as the NSW 2005 was held Alphandale high School School in Buffalo Flats near East london, from the 09-14 May 2005. The project deals with Science, Engineering and Technology programmes and educational issues. The theme of the project was "Tomorrow's Science and Technology is in our Youth's Hands". 2005 is dedicated to Physics, dubbed "International Year of Physics".

The funding for this project came from the national Department of Science and Technology (DST) through SAASTA (South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement). Though funding was limited, the programme managed to attract learners, teachers and exhibitors from as far as Grahamstown and Cofimvaba.

Some of the exhibitors present were RUMEP (Rhodes University Mathematics Education project), SAIAB (South African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity), JUTA (Science Kit), University of Fort Hare (East London), Amatola Waters, and ICASA (Independent Communications Authority of South Africa).

Nozihle Mbokomba, Siyabulela Matshayana and Luvuyo Mgqibisa went for a day on Wednesday to Cofimvaba to help with the satellite SET WEEK 2005 that was taking place in the former Transkei. Matshayana also played a crucial role during launch on Thursday when he was asked to be the master of ceremony, and showcased his public speaking skills. Mngqibisa too was never to be let down, and when the ISETT-SETA bus driver and facilitator did not turn up, Mngqibisa willingly took over. He drove the Mercedes Benz mini bus daily, to and fro the teachers’ centre in Stirling. He also facilitated the IT skills for all those hundreds of learners who were queuing outside and waiting for their turn.

Other Mdamsteda members present were Mr Zwelethemba Bakana who was an all rounder and in charge of the logistics, registration of schools and handing out of available material. Zongezile Matshoba was in charge of the media, designing and placing adverts on local newspapers and moving around the stalls taking pictures. Zonke Mamatu looked after the Mdamsteda stall and conducted daily workshops on physical science. Mzukusi ‘Papa’ Ncanywa and Phumeza Mashalaba took care of the quiz. These two had their hands full as the quiz day was well attended. It was interesting to see Mdantsane schools which are serviced by Mdamsteda coming tops in the quiz. These schools were David Mama High, Solomon Mahlangu High and S.E.K. Mqhayi High.

ICT versus journalists

I watched with dismay when Nwabisa Mbelekwana switched off her computer (11 May 2005).

She was featured on e-tv's "rough cut". This show is on Wednesdays, just after the 7.00pm news.

Sitting in front of her computer with the word document open, she reached for the power button. The computer screen went blank.

Oh my God, unbelievable! What must our children and many of us coming from the disadvantaged communities without these resources learn? what a shame for journalism in general, and for ICT journalists in particular?