Science Spaza

Meet the new voices in South African science!

On 9 September 2025, the FameLab SA Semi-Final will showcase a new generation of science communicators as they share their research in just 3 minutes.

Congratulations to our semi-finalists (from top left to right in each row on the graphic):

· Mbalenhle Ntuli – Stellenbosch University
· Kamogelo Mmereke – UNISA
· Batsiba Rasekanye – North-West University
· Chandelé Montgomery – Wits University / GENUS
· Aide Zoe Idemudia – North-West University
· Ofentse Matlhakola – University of the Witwatersrand / NITheCS
· Nichole Maistry – MINTEK
· Ezinne Uchechi Ekwujuru – Vaal University of Technology
· Aminu Musa – Nelson Mandela University
· Ayishah Seimela – University of Limpopo
· Dineo Masia – Evolutionary Studies Institute / GENUS
· Jackey Mukhawana – Rhodes University
· Yanne Ble – Vaal University of Technology
· Lutho Lange – Nelson Mandela University
· Kganya Monareng – MINTEK
· Koketso Sekwadi – University of Limpopo
· Kampo Frederick Mashaba – Walter Sisulu University
· Shimon Corcos – University of KwaZulu-Natal / NITheCS
· Luther Chipembere – Stellenbosch University
· Tshepiso Seshoeshoe – UNISA
· Nasiphi Phaliso – Walter Sisulu University
· Lungelihle Dlamini – Rhodes University

These researchers are passionate, inspiring, and ready to prove that science has a bright future in Africa.

📅 Save the date: 9 September 2025
📍 Join us online: https://zurl.co/ywvZF
🕚 11h00 – 15h00

Support your favourite and celebrate home-grown science talent!

Did you know that stinkbugs are highly nutritious and tasty? They are even harvested, prepared and sold by the Bolobedu tribe of Ga-Modjadji in Limpopo

Learn more about these interesting bugs and make one of your own when you pick up this week's copy of MavericKids!

Help us celebrate World Space Week 2025 from 4 - 10 October!

We’re looking for scientists, innovators, researchers and research organisations working in Space Science in Africa who want to share their passion for all things space!

Science Spaza's newspaper will explore how is changing lives on Earth and inspiring future innovation. Spaza Space is distributed through The Daily Maverick, Science Centres and our national network of science clubs.

Sponsor a worksheet (in English and one other South African language!) or advertise in this special edition and show your support for Space Science in South Africa.

Email us: [email protected] 🚀

Celebrating Women in Quantum Physics this National Science Week with Spaza Space & Daily Maverick

This Women’s Month and National Science Week, we proudly spotlight the brilliant women shaping South Africa’s quantum future. The latest Spaza Space edition, featured in the Daily Maverick, celebrates scientists from SA QuTI, NRF-iThemba LABS, and NITheCS who are leading research, mentoring future scientists, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. You can also meet them on our YouTube channel!

Here’s what some of our partners have to say:

“We’ve partnered with Science Spaza for IYQ 2025 to inspire young minds across South Africa to explore the wonders and possibilities of the quantum world.” — Prof. Francesco Petruccione, NITheCS

“The IYQ 2025 creates an opportunity to celebrate the role and contribution of mathematics and fundamental science as drivers of technological advancement. And what better way of spreading the word amongst youngsters than Science Spaza!” — Gillian Arendse, NRF-iThemba LABS

“SA QuTI has teamed up with Science Spaza for IYQ 2025 to spark youth interest and raise public awareness of quantum science – a fast-growing field set to transform technology, industry, and society.” — Jodie Watson, SA QuTI

You can also find a digital edition on sciencespaza.org. Plus, inside the edition, use the QR codes to watch 8 inspiring videos featuring these researchers on the Science Spaza YouTube channel.

The next edition is set to launch for Space Week, partner with us to reach young science enthusiasts.

Email [email protected] today to get involved.

National Science Week 2025 is here!

The theme is “Science, technology and innovation are for everyone!"

Our Science Spaza resources are free for everyone to download from our NEW website at https://sciencespaza.org/

Because Knowledge is Ncah!

Could the next big astronomy breakthrough come from Groote Schuur High?

Learners from Groote Schuur High in Cape Town are getting a mind-blowing look at the universe through a VR experience by Sozo Labs, exploring the cutting-edge SKA MeerKAT telescope. 🔭🔬

This immersive journey is part of their Science Spaza competition win, giving them the chance to step into the world of radio astronomy—where signals from deep space unlock the secrets of the cosmos.

Today, they’re seeing the universe like never before. Tomorrow, they could be the ones making the discoveries! 🚀

Want to help inspire the next generation of scientists? Partner with us and support the Science Spaza initiative! Contact us at the link in bio for more information.