“DSTI visited VUT to assess readiness for the 2026 National Science Month launch, exploring partnerships, facilities and science engagement opportunities.”
17 February 2026 | Story by: Nontobeko Moimane | Picture by: Sifiso Nomzaza
2 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) showcased its capacity, infrastructure and strategic alignment to host the 2026 National Science Month launch during a high level engagement with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) on 13 February 2026.
The visit formed part of a national assessment process to identify a host institution for the July 2026 launch, a flagship event that places science, technology and innovation at the centre of South Africa’s development agenda.
Welcoming the delegation, Dr Grace Kanakana Katumba, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to advancing science through applied teaching, industry collaboration and community engagement.
She emphasised that VUT’s applied academic model and strong industry orientation position the institution as a credible partner in advancing national innovation priorities.
“Hosting the Science Month launch would align strongly with VUT’s vision of strengthening the link between science, technology, industry and society,” she said.
Dr Livhuwani Masevhe, Deputy Director: Science Promotion at the DSTI, presented an overview of the evolution of South Africa’s science engagement agenda. He reflected on the development of National Science Week and the strategic transition to National Science Month as a recognised observance on the country’s calendar.
He noted that the revised Science, Technology and Innovation White Paper underscores the importance of public engagement, scientific literacy and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems.
“Science must be accessible, relevant and meaningful to ordinary citizens,” he said, adding that higher education institutions play a central role in translating research and innovation into societal benefit.
The delegation assessed VUT’s infrastructure, coordination capacity and stakeholder support systems to evaluate its readiness to host a national scale launch. Discussions
also explored potential programming, exhibitions, school outreach initiatives and media engagement strategies.
The engagement strengthened collaboration between VUT and DSTI and underscored the University’s growing stature within the national science and innovation ecosystem.
A final decision on the host institution will follow DSTI’s formal assessment process.