The centre, a "spacious, converted house" in Mothibistad, next to Kuruman, was officially unveiled by Deputy Minister of science and technology Derek Hanekom, - who also delivered the keynote speech.
Hanekom said that, by opening a science centre in the Northern Cape, the department hopes to bolster education and provide a solid future for the industry in South Africa. "We believe this is something that deserves our support in that we expect to see a high return on what we put into the strengthening of science and technology among South African youth," Hanekom said.
Hanekom added that the centre, which is open to members of the public, will be expanded on gradually, and will, to a degree, be focused on astronomy. "Each province has its own character and geographical advantages, and the Northern Cape lends itself to astronomy. The province is close to the Karoo and boasts the ideal conditions for astronomy work, both in the field of optical and radio astronomy," he said. The centre will provide support in the learning and teaching of maths and science to about 197 schools in the catchment area.
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