It was a crisp, perfect Joburg morning. The bright blue sky promised the beginning of a remarkable journey: a visit to the University of Johannesburg Science Faculty for a group of CityKidz learners from grades 6 and 7.
The day began with a tour of the UJ library, where the learners were introduced to various sections including rare collections, digital processes for library loans and a glimpse into their future when CityKidz learners themselves would be using the high-tech facilities. Next, they were divided into small groups by Joy Hlaraka, master’s student and our guide. Each group was led by a graduate student who served as a mentor throughout the day. In the laboratories, CityKidz learners were dressed in white coats and protective eyewear, just like real scientists.
They were introduced to scientific fields, from chemistry to physics and engineering. Learners were awestruck by the complexity of the machinery and equipment, such as laser cutters, spectrometers and 3D printers. The mentors took time to explain how each instrument worked and what kind of experiments could be performed using them. Learners were shown some practical applications for architectural models and jewellery design. The highlight of the day was the series of interactive workshops where the learners got the chance to perform experiments. In the chemistry laboratory, Dr Sam Simanye helped CityKidz learners conduct exothermic experiments. They mixed household chemicals to observe reactions, which left many wide-eyed with amazement as they watched colours change and gases form.
A popular activity was making elephant toothpaste. Nothing to do with elephant saliva or snot. Elephant toothpaste is a chemical reaction that makes a volcano of foam when soapy water traps gases from the rapid decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. Dr Lesego Malepe demonstrated how to dehydrate sugar. The addition of sulphuric acid to ordinary sugar dehydrates it and produces a complex carbonaceous solid residue. Search online for both experiments: elephant toothpaste and sugar dehydration experiment. As the day came to a close, the learners gathered for a final Q+A sessions with Dr Thollwana Maketha, lecturer in Chemical Sciences.
She emphasised the importance of curiosity, perseverance and creativity in science. ‘Every scientist starts with a question,’ Dr Maketha explained, ‘Science is about exploring the unknown and finding answers.’ Favour Aigbojie summed up her day: My visit to UJ was amazing, inspirational and fun. I saw amazing scientific experiments in the lab: elephant toothpaste and the dehydration of sugar. I learnt about exothermic and endothermic reactions. Our mentors were very informative. They answered all our questions. I learnt so much more than just about experiments. I learned about the possibilities of my future career.
The collaboration between CityKidz Primary and UJ is part of a broader initiative aimed at promoting STEM education from an early age. Mr Mathekga has been pivotal in organising the event and helping to expose CityKidz learners to university-level research and facilities. A huge thanks to all who made this outstanding visit possible.
