Learners from Mafumani Secondary School in the Mopani District take part in hands-on science experiments during the University of Limpopo’s Adopt-a-School programme, spearheaded by the Faculty of Science and Agriculture. Photo: Forgive Hlungwani
By Jeanette Makhura – ulpublication@ul.ac.za
The University of Limpopo (UL) is dedicated to ensuring that learners from rural and township schools are not left behind in the world of science
Through its Adopt-a-School programme, UL recently welcomed learners from two Vhembe schools, N’wanati High School and Mafumani Secondary School, providing them with a unique opportunity to engage in real science experiments.
During two visits, over 230 learners filled UL’s lecture halls, laboratories, and museums. N’wanati High School brought 130 learners from Grades 9 to 12, while Mafumani Secondary School was represented by 100 eager Grade 11 and 12 learners.
N’wanati High School learners from Grades 9 to 12 attentively listen to a career guidance presentation during their Adopt-a-School visit at UL.
The initiative, led by the School of Physical and Mineral Sciences (SPMS) in the Faculty of Science and Agriculture at UL, brought the campus to life as learners engaged in career-focused presentations delivered by academics and support staff. From counselling services offering personal guidance to recruitment officers outlining study options, every session highlighted that science is a practical field with vast opportunities.
At the Science Education Centre, learners took part in hands-on physical science experiments, synthesising esters by reacting carboxylic acids with alcohols, using concentrated sulphuric acid as a catalyst and testing internal resistance in circuits and comparing the behaviour of series and parallel connections. Concepts they had only encountered in textbooks came alive before their eyes, sparking curiosity and excitement about the possibilities within science.
Professor Hasani Chauke, Director of the School of Physical and Mineral Sciences, says the Adopt-a-School programme aims to open learners’ eyes to the endless possibilities that science offers.
Professor Hasani Chauke, Director of the School of Physical and Mineral Sciences at UL, expressed the initiative’s purpose with heartfelt clarity. “This programme is not just about recruitment; it’s about inspiration. When a learner handles real scientific equipment and sees theory come to life, that’s when the dream of becoming a scientist feels achievable.”
For many learners, the day went beyond experiments; it was about possibility. They were reminded that higher education is attainable regardless of their backgrounds.
Sandile Rikhotso, a representative from the School of Physical and Mineral Sciences at the University of Limpopo, encourages learners to pursue careers in science and related fields to help tackle challenges facing the country, such as the electricity crisis, unemployment and water shortages.
The Adopt-a-School programme embodies UL’s commitment to community engagement. By opening its doors, the University offers more than just brochures and presentations; it provides mentorship, practical experience, and hope for a generation that might otherwise never enter a laboratory.