{"id":38902,"date":"2026-07-08T13:21:08","date_gmt":"2026-07-08T13:21:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/?p=38902"},"modified":"2026-07-08T13:33:31","modified_gmt":"2026-07-08T13:33:31","slug":"vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/","title":{"rendered":"VUT hosts South Africa&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month launch"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>&#8220;VUT hosted South Africa&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month launch, bringing together more than 140 science exhibitions, learners, researchers and innovators to celebrate science, technology and innovation for everyone&#8221;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>08 July 2026 | Story by: Nontobeko Moimane| Picture:\u00a0Keitumetsi Mokgope<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">7 minutes read time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"Dr. Nomalungelo Gina\" class=\"wp-image-38978\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina-1536x864.webp 1536w, https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina-18x10.webp 18w, https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina.webp 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Dr. Nomalungelo Gina<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) transformed into South Africa&#8217;s largest science engagement hub as thousands of learners, educators, researchers, industry leaders, government representatives and community members gathered at the VUT Gauteng Science and Technology Park in Sebokeng for the official launch of the country&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month on 4 July 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hosted in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the National Research Foundation through the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA ), and the Gauteng Provincial Government, the landmark event marked a historic transition from the long-standing National Science Week to an expanded month-long celebration under the theme, <em>&#8220;Science is for Everyone.&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The atmosphere throughout the day reflected the excitement surrounding science, innovation and discovery. From early morning, the VUT Gauteng Science and Technology Park buzzed with curiosity as school learners explored cutting-edge technologies, interacted with scientists, engaged researchers with thought-provoking questions and experienced science beyond the classroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the highlights of the launch was the impressive exhibition village, featuring more than 140 exhibition stands representing universities, science councils, research institutions, government entities, innovators and industry partners from across South Africa. The interactive displays created an immersive learning experience where visitors witnessed live demonstrations, explored emerging technologies, discovered future career opportunities and gained first-hand exposure to scientific breakthroughs shaping the country&#8217;s future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learners moved enthusiastically from stand to stand, participating in robotics demonstrations, artificial intelligence showcases, environmental science projects, engineering innovations, space science exhibits, biotechnology displays and interactive experiments that brought scientific concepts to life. The exhibition served as a powerful reminder that science is not confined to laboratories but has practical applications that improve everyday life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The launch coincided with VUT&#8217;s 60th anniversary celebrations, making the occasion even more significant as the University showcased six decades of producing graduates, advancing research and driving innovation under its slogan, &#8220;Inspiring Thought, Shaping Talent.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Welcoming guests to the University, VUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Kehla Ndlovu, described the launch as a defining moment not only for the institution but also for South Africa&#8217;s science, technology and innovation landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He said NSM represents a new chapter in positioning science and innovation at the centre of economic growth, industrial competitiveness, sustainable development and community advancement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;VUT is honoured to host the inaugural launch during its milestone 60th anniversary, reaffirming the University&#8217;s commitment to producing graduates equipped with practical skills, entrepreneurial mindsets and innovative thinking capable of transforming society,&#8221; said Professor Ndlovu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">He highlighted the strategic importance of the VUT Science and Technology Park as an innovation ecosystem where research is commercialised, partnerships flourish and entrepreneurs collaborate to solve real-world challenges. He further called on government, higher education institutions, industry and communities to strengthen collaboration in developing the next generation of scientists, innovators and entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Demonstrating why VUT continues to position itself as an innovation hub for the Greater Vaal Region, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Dr Grace Kanakana-Katumba, showcased how the University&#8217;s research and innovation ecosystem is transforming communities through practical solutions that address South Africa&#8217;s developmental challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">She highlighted VUT&#8217;s strategic growth into a comprehensive institution serving more than 23,000 students through 144 academic programmes, supported by a growing research portfolio and internationally recognised researchers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Her presentation featured several flagship research initiatives, including the Centre for Advanced Manufacturing, artificial intelligence technologies, green hydrogen research, carbon capture initiatives, advanced water purification systems, biotechnology innovations, technology commercialisation, drug discovery research and waste-to-energy projects that convert environmental challenges into economic opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dr Kanakana-Katumba emphasised that science should extend beyond lecture halls and laboratories, reaching communities through innovation that creates employment, improves healthcare, strengthens industries and enhances quality of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Science belongs to every learner who dreams of becoming an engineer, every entrepreneur developing a new product, every farmer seeking better solutions and every community striving for sustainable development,&#8221; she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adding another exciting dimension to the programme was an engaging presentation by renowned forensic pathologist Professor Ryan Blumenthal from the University of Pretoria. Drawing on more than 13,000 autopsies conducted throughout his career, he captivated the audience with compelling insights into the role of forensic science in modern society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Professor Blumenthal demonstrated how forensic science contributes not only to criminal investigations but also to public health, human rights, disaster management and evidence-based decision-making. His presentation illustrated how scientific investigation saves lives, advances medical knowledge and strengthens justice systems, inspiring many young learners to consider careers in forensic science and medicine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, officially declared NSM open and explained the government&#8217;s decision to expand the annual National Science Week into a month-long national science engagement programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">She said science, technology and innovation have become central to addressing complex global and national challenges while driving economic transformation, industrialisation and competitiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dr Gina encouraged learners, educators and communities to actively participate in NSM activities throughout July, stressing that science should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background or location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">She also applauded the extensive exhibition programme and encouraged every learner to engage with exhibitors before leaving the venue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;The exhibitions bring together universities, science councils, government entities and industry partners to demonstrate that science, technology and innovation truly belong to everyone,&#8221; she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Highlighting South Africa&#8217;s scientific achievements, Dr Gina urged young people to pursue careers in science by drawing inspiration from local researchers who continue to make groundbreaking contributions in medicine, engineering, astronomy, space science and advanced manufacturing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most anticipated moments of the day was the announcement of the winners of the NSM Schools Debating Competition by NRF-SAASTA Managing Director, Dr Mamoeletsi Mosia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Makgetse High School received the prestigious championship trophy and an educational science tour, while Kganya Lesedi School of Specialisation was announced as the runner-up. The trophies were designed and produced using VUT&#8217;s advanced 3D printing facilities at the Science and Technology Park, showcasing the University&#8217;s technological capabilities and commitment to innovation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dr Mosia also announced the winner of the inaugural NSM Logo Design Competition, recognising University of Zululand student Mr Wandile Mgaga for creating the official logo that will become the national symbol of South Africa&#8217;s premier science engagement programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The celebrations concluded on a festive note as VUT Council Chairperson Professor Mandla Radebe, Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Kehla Ndlovu, and Deputy Minister Dr Nomalungelo Gina jointly cut VUT&#8217;s commemorative 60th anniversary cake, symbolising the University&#8217;s enduring contribution to higher education, research and innovation in South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beyond the speeches and formal proceedings, the day belonged to the thousands of young people whose excitement, curiosity and enthusiasm filled every corner of the VUT Gauteng Science and Technology Park. Their active participation at the exhibition stands, meaningful engagement with scientists and eagerness to explore future careers embodied the spirit of this year&#8217;s theme, proving that science truly is for everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Among them was Ms Amohelang Sekonyela from Katleho-Impumelelo Secondary School, who said the experience had broadened her understanding of science and inspired her to think differently about her future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Before today, I never realised how many career opportunities there are in science. Visiting the different exhibition stands, speaking to researchers and seeing technologies like robotics and artificial intelligence made me realise that science is not just something we learn in the classroom, it is something that can shape our future. NSM has inspired me to think differently about my career,&#8221; she said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As NSM continues across the country throughout July, the successful launch at VUT has set the tone for a nationwide celebration of scientific excellence, innovation and collaboration. More importantly, it demonstrated how partnerships between government, higher education, industry and communities can inspire the next generation of scientists, innovators and entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The launch also reaffirmed VUT&#8217;s growing role as a leading institution driving technological advancement, knowledge creation and socio-economic transformation while inspiring future generations to imagine, innovate and shape a better South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&#8220;VUT hosted South Africa&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month launch, bringing together more than 140 science exhibitions, learners, researchers and innovators [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":38978,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[47,1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-38902","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-latest-news-vaal-university-of-technology","category-uncategorized"],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t<!-- All in One SEO Pro 4.9.10 - aioseo.com -->\n\t<meta name=\"description\" content=\"VUT hosted South Africa&#039;s inaugural National Science Month launch, uniting 140+ exhibitions, learners and innovators to celebrate science and technology.\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"max-image-preview:large\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Esihle\"\/>\n\t<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"generator\" content=\"All in One SEO Pro (AIOSEO) 4.9.10\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Vaal University of Technology \u2013 Inspiring thought, shaping talent\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"VUT hosts South Africa\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch \u2013 Vaal University of Technology\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"VUT hosted South Africa&#039;s inaugural National Science Month launch, uniting 140+ exhibitions, learners and innovators to celebrate science and technology.\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Vaal-University-of-Technology-60th-logo-scaled.webp\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:image:secure_url\" content=\"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Vaal-University-of-Technology-60th-logo-scaled.webp\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-07-08T13:21:08+00:00\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-07-08T13:33:31+00:00\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/people\/Vaal-University-of-Technology\/61570177062858\/\" \/>\n\t\t<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n\t\t<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@VUT_Online\" \/>\n\t\t<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"VUT hosts South Africa\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch \u2013 Vaal University of Technology\" \/>\n\t\t<meta name=\"twitter:description\" content=\"VUT hosted South Africa&#039;s inaugural National Science Month launch, uniting 140+ exhibitions, learners and innovators to celebrate science and technology.\" \/>\n\t\t<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@VUT_Online\" \/>\n\t\t<meta name=\"twitter:image\" content=\"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Vaal-University-of-Technology-60th-logo-scaled.webp\" \/>\n\t\t<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"aioseo-schema\">\n\t\t\t{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#blogposting\",\"name\":\"VUT hosts South Africa\\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch \\u2013 Vaal University of Technology\",\"headline\":\"VUT hosts South Africa&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month launch\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/author\\\/esihle\\\/#author\"},\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/07\\\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina.webp\",\"width\":2048,\"height\":1152,\"caption\":\"Dr. Nomalungelo Gina\"},\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-08T13:21:08+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-08T13:33:31+00:00\",\"inLanguage\":\"st\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#webpage\"},\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#webpage\"},\"articleSection\":\"Latest News - Vaal University of Technology, Uncategorized\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#breadcrumblist\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st#listItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\",\"nextItem\":{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/category\\\/uncategorized\\\/#listItem\",\"name\":\"Uncategorized\"}},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/category\\\/uncategorized\\\/#listItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Uncategorized\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/category\\\/uncategorized\\\/\",\"nextItem\":{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#listItem\",\"name\":\"VUT hosts South Africa&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month launch\"},\"previousItem\":{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st#listItem\",\"name\":\"Home\"}},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#listItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"VUT hosts South Africa&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month launch\",\"previousItem\":{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/category\\\/uncategorized\\\/#listItem\",\"name\":\"Uncategorized\"}}]},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Vaal University of Technology\",\"description\":\"Vaal University of Technology is a higher education institution in South Africa.\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/\",\"telephone\":\"+27169509000\",\"foundingDate\":\"1966-01-03\",\"numberOfEmployees\":{\"@type\":\"QuantitativeValue\",\"minValue\":1000,\"maxValue\":1500},\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/cropped-VUT-logo-300x100.png\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#organizationLogo\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#organizationLogo\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/people\\\/Vaal-University-of-Technology\\\/61570177062858\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/twitter.com\\\/VUT_Online\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/vaal.university.of.technology\\\/?hl=en\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.tiktok.com\\\/@vut_official?_t=ZM-8tzYe1v22J3&_r=1\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/channel\\\/UCDzwOVrN1e25VLkWkwf-hzw\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/company\\\/vaal-university-of-technology-vut\\\/\"],\"address\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/#postaladdress\",\"@type\":\"PostalAddress\",\"streetAddress\":\"Andries Potgieter Blvd\",\"postalCode\":\"1911\",\"addressLocality\":\"Vanderbijlpark\",\"addressCountry\":\"ZA\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/author\\\/esihle\\\/#author\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/author\\\/esihle\\\/\",\"name\":\"Esihle\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#authorImage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/b0a015ac501a91afd22f431658a6820222441b72b277654b53577273eeb07c9a?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"width\":96,\"height\":96,\"caption\":\"Esihle\"}},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#webpage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/\",\"name\":\"VUT hosts South Africa\\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch \\u2013 Vaal University of Technology\",\"description\":\"VUT hosted South Africa's inaugural National Science Month launch, uniting 140+ exhibitions, learners and innovators to celebrate science and technology.\",\"inLanguage\":\"st\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/#website\"},\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#breadcrumblist\"},\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/author\\\/esihle\\\/#author\"},\"creator\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/author\\\/esihle\\\/#author\"},\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/07\\\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina.webp\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#mainImage\",\"width\":2048,\"height\":1152,\"caption\":\"Dr. Nomalungelo Gina\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\\\/#mainImage\"},\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-08T13:21:08+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-08T13:33:31+00:00\"},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/\",\"name\":\"Vaal University of Technology\",\"description\":\"Inspiring thought, shaping talent\",\"inLanguage\":\"st\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/vut.ac.za\\\/st\\\/#organization\"}}]}\n\t\t<\/script>\n\t\t<!-- All in One SEO Pro -->\r\n\t\t<title>VUT hosts South Africa\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch \u2013 Vaal University of Technology<\/title>\n\n","aioseo_head_json":{"title":"VUT hosts South Africa\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch \u2013 Vaal University of Technology","description":"VUT hosted South Africa's inaugural National Science Month launch, uniting 140+ exhibitions, learners and innovators to celebrate science and technology.","canonical_url":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/","robots":"max-image-preview:large","keywords":"","webmasterTools":{"miscellaneous":""},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"BlogPosting","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#blogposting","name":"VUT hosts South Africa\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch \u2013 Vaal University of Technology","headline":"VUT hosts South Africa&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month launch","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/author\/esihle\/#author"},"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/#organization"},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina.webp","width":2048,"height":1152,"caption":"Dr. Nomalungelo Gina"},"datePublished":"2026-07-08T13:21:08+00:00","dateModified":"2026-07-08T13:33:31+00:00","inLanguage":"st","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#webpage"},"isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#webpage"},"articleSection":"Latest News - Vaal University of Technology, Uncategorized"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#breadcrumblist","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st#listItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st","nextItem":{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/category\/uncategorized\/#listItem","name":"Uncategorized"}},{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/category\/uncategorized\/#listItem","position":2,"name":"Uncategorized","item":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/category\/uncategorized\/","nextItem":{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#listItem","name":"VUT hosts South Africa&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month launch"},"previousItem":{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st#listItem","name":"Home"}},{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#listItem","position":3,"name":"VUT hosts South Africa&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month launch","previousItem":{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/category\/uncategorized\/#listItem","name":"Uncategorized"}}]},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/#organization","name":"Vaal University of Technology","description":"Vaal University of Technology is a higher education institution in South Africa.","url":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/","telephone":"+27169509000","foundingDate":"1966-01-03","numberOfEmployees":{"@type":"QuantitativeValue","minValue":1000,"maxValue":1500},"logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/cropped-VUT-logo-300x100.png","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#organizationLogo"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#organizationLogo"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/people\/Vaal-University-of-Technology\/61570177062858\/","https:\/\/twitter.com\/VUT_Online\/","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/vaal.university.of.technology\/?hl=en","https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@vut_official?_t=ZM-8tzYe1v22J3&_r=1","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCDzwOVrN1e25VLkWkwf-hzw","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/vaal-university-of-technology-vut\/"],"address":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/#postaladdress","@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"Andries Potgieter Blvd","postalCode":"1911","addressLocality":"Vanderbijlpark","addressCountry":"ZA"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/author\/esihle\/#author","url":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/author\/esihle\/","name":"Esihle","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#authorImage","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/b0a015ac501a91afd22f431658a6820222441b72b277654b53577273eeb07c9a?s=96&d=mm&r=g","width":96,"height":96,"caption":"Esihle"}},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#webpage","url":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/","name":"VUT hosts South Africa\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch \u2013 Vaal University of Technology","description":"VUT hosted South Africa's inaugural National Science Month launch, uniting 140+ exhibitions, learners and innovators to celebrate science and technology.","inLanguage":"st","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/#website"},"breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#breadcrumblist"},"author":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/author\/esihle\/#author"},"creator":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/author\/esihle\/#author"},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Dr-Nomalungelo-Gina.webp","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#mainImage","width":2048,"height":1152,"caption":"Dr. Nomalungelo Gina"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/#mainImage"},"datePublished":"2026-07-08T13:21:08+00:00","dateModified":"2026-07-08T13:33:31+00:00"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/#website","url":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/","name":"Vaal University of Technology","description":"Inspiring thought, shaping talent","inLanguage":"st","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/#organization"}}]},"og:locale":"en_US","og:site_name":"Vaal University of Technology \u2013 Inspiring thought, shaping talent","og:type":"article","og:title":"VUT hosts South Africa\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch \u2013 Vaal University of Technology","og:description":"VUT hosted South Africa's inaugural National Science Month launch, uniting 140+ exhibitions, learners and innovators to celebrate science and technology.","og:url":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/","og:image":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Vaal-University-of-Technology-60th-logo-scaled.webp","og:image:secure_url":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Vaal-University-of-Technology-60th-logo-scaled.webp","article:published_time":"2026-07-08T13:21:08+00:00","article:modified_time":"2026-07-08T13:33:31+00:00","article:publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/people\/Vaal-University-of-Technology\/61570177062858\/","twitter:card":"summary_large_image","twitter:site":"@VUT_Online","twitter:title":"VUT hosts South Africa\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch \u2013 Vaal University of Technology","twitter:description":"VUT hosted South Africa's inaugural National Science Month launch, uniting 140+ exhibitions, learners and innovators to celebrate science and technology.","twitter:creator":"@VUT_Online","twitter:image":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Vaal-University-of-Technology-60th-logo-scaled.webp"},"aioseo_meta_data":{"post_id":"38902","title":null,"description":"VUT hosted South Africa's inaugural National Science Month launch, uniting 140+ exhibitions, learners and innovators to celebrate science and technology.","keywords":null,"keyphrases":{"focus":{"keyphrase":"National Science Month","score":75,"analysis":{"keyphraseInTitle":{"score":9,"maxScore":9,"error":0},"keyphraseInDescription":{"score":9,"maxScore":9,"error":0},"keyphraseLength":{"score":9,"maxScore":9,"error":0,"length":3},"keyphraseInURL":{"score":5,"maxScore":5,"error":0},"keyphraseInIntroduction":{"score":9,"maxScore":9,"error":0},"keyphraseInSubHeadings":[],"keyphraseInImageAlt":{"score":3,"maxScore":9,"error":1},"keywordDensity":{"score":0,"type":"low","maxScore":9,"error":1}}},"additional":[{"keyphrase":"vut","score":87,"analysis":{"keyphraseInDescription":{"score":9,"maxScore":9,"error":0},"keyphraseLength":{"score":9,"maxScore":9,"error":0,"length":1},"keyphraseInIntroduction":{"score":9,"maxScore":9,"error":0},"keyphraseInImageAlt":{"score":3,"maxScore":9,"error":1},"keywordDensity":{"type":"best","score":9,"maxScore":9,"error":0}}},{"keyphrase":"STEM","score":40,"analysis":{"keyphraseInDescription":{"score":3,"maxScore":9,"error":1},"keyphraseLength":{"score":9,"maxScore":9,"error":0,"length":1},"keyphraseInIntroduction":{"score":3,"maxScore":9,"error":1},"keyphraseInImageAlt":{"score":3,"maxScore":9,"error":1},"keywordDensity":{"score":0,"type":"low","maxScore":9,"error":1}}}]},"primary_term":null,"canonical_url":null,"og_title":null,"og_description":null,"og_object_type":"default","og_image_type":"default","og_image_url":null,"og_image_width":null,"og_image_height":null,"og_image_custom_url":null,"og_image_custom_fields":null,"og_video":"","og_custom_url":null,"og_article_section":null,"og_article_tags":null,"twitter_use_og":false,"twitter_card":"default","twitter_image_type":"default","twitter_image_url":null,"twitter_image_custom_url":null,"twitter_image_custom_fields":null,"twitter_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"schema":{"blockGraphs":[],"customGraphs":[],"default":{"data":{"Article":[],"Course":[],"Dataset":[],"FAQPage":[],"Movie":[],"Person":[],"Product":[],"ProductReview":[],"Car":[],"Recipe":[],"Service":[],"SoftwareApplication":[],"WebPage":[]},"graphName":"BlogPosting","isEnabled":true},"graphs":[]},"schema_type":"default","schema_type_options":null,"pillar_content":false,"robots_default":true,"robots_noindex":false,"robots_noarchive":false,"robots_nosnippet":false,"robots_nofollow":false,"robots_noimageindex":false,"robots_noodp":false,"robots_notranslate":false,"robots_max_snippet":"-1","robots_max_videopreview":"-1","robots_max_imagepreview":"large","priority":null,"frequency":"default","local_seo":null,"seo_analyzer_scan_date":"2026-07-08 13:34:11","breadcrumb_settings":null,"limit_modified_date":false,"open_ai":null,"ai":{"faqs":[],"keyPoints":[],"schemas":[],"titles":[],"descriptions":[],"socialPosts":{"email":{"subject":"","preview":"","content":""},"linkedin":[],"twitter":[],"facebook":[],"instagram":[]}},"created":"2026-07-08 07:10:43","updated":"2026-07-08 14:30:22"},"aioseo_breadcrumb":"<div class=\"aioseo-breadcrumbs\"><span class=\"aioseo-breadcrumb\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\" title=\"Home\">Home<\/a>\n<\/span><span class=\"aioseo-breadcrumb-separator\">&raquo;<\/span><span class=\"aioseo-breadcrumb\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/category\/uncategorized\/\" title=\"Uncategorized\">Uncategorized<\/a>\n<\/span><span class=\"aioseo-breadcrumb-separator\">&raquo;<\/span><span class=\"aioseo-breadcrumb\">\n\tVUT hosts South Africa\u2019s inaugural National Science Month launch\n<\/span><\/div>","aioseo_breadcrumb_json":[{"label":"Home","link":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st"},{"label":"Uncategorized","link":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/category\/uncategorized\/"},{"label":"VUT hosts South Africa&#8217;s inaugural National Science Month launch","link":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-hosts-south-africas-inaugural-national-science-month-launch\/"}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/38902","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=38902"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/38902\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":38979,"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/38902\/revisions\/38979"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/38978"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=38902"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=38902"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=38902"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}