MUT Analytical Chemistry department wowed grade 12 leaners with a science experiment during the grade 12 Career Symposium organised by eThekwini Municipality at the Durban ICC. Some of the learners that benefited from attending the event were Phiwayinkosi Dlamini, from Kwajabula High School, in Umbumbulu, southwest of Durban. Dlamini does Science at school. Now she knows she can confidently choose a qualification in STEM after grade 12, thanks to a Chemistry presentation by Mfundo Makhanya, a Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry at MUT. Makhanya’s demonstration confirmed to the learners that studying science subjects at school was the right decision. Khethelo Makhathini from Vumandaba High School, Mfume, south of Durban, is also planning to study Science further. Makhathini wants to study Petroleum Engineering after grade 12. Petroleum Engineering is the science and technology of extracting, producing, and exploring oil and natural gas. It is a field that uses Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Engineering to develop methods for tapping into petroleum systems.
Dlamini, Makhathini, and many other learners who attended the demonstration by Makhanya, are now in a better position to do well in their first quarter examination. The presentation gave the learners a chance to grasp some abstract concepts, particularly those that do not have laboratories in their schools.