The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, reportedly the largest science and technology centre in Africa, was officially opened yesterday by Gauteng premier Mbazima Shilowa in Newtown, Johannesburg.
An initiative of the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), it is hoped that the centre will address the urgent need for the development of science, engineering and technology proficiency in SA, which in turn will contribute to economic development and job creation.
The Sci-Bono centre houses many science exhibits and will implement programmes with the aim of inspiring and challenging visitors and motivating learners in their entry into the digital age.
Speaking at the opening, Shilowa said he believes that qualifications in maths, science and technology are a sure way of sustaining an economy that he feels is destined to become globally competitive.
"The contribution of this centre is intended to replace apartheid legacies with non-racial, non-sexist and democratic education for all learners, and should provide an environment that will transform the learning of science into a voyage of curiosity, exploration, discovery and fun."
BHP Billiton, a founding partner in the Sci-Bono centre, also announced it would contribute R13.5 million - from BBDT, its development trust - towards the creation of the BHP Billiton Career Centre.
"Our partnership with the GDE is one that bodes well for the ongoing development of education in this province," says Sam Seepei, the head of BBDT.
"Our common vision is to enable the delivery of quality education so that we can develop a dynamic society that has the ability to contribute to the socio-economic growth of SA."
Kelebogile Dilotsotlhe, CEO of the Sci-Bono centre, believes it will play a major role in ensuring Gauteng is placed on course to be a true global leader in science and technology.
"The discovery centre will provide a unique and interactive experience in science and technology, with the aim of returning science to society and providing an environment where our children can become enchanted by the wonders of science and technology," says Dilotsotlhe.
The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre forms part of the Newtown Urban Renewal Project and once completed - early in 2006 - will accommodate up to 650 000 visitors annually, including school groups, residents and tourists.
The completed centre will offer exhibition halls, classrooms, laboratories, a career centre, a 350-seat auditorium, a resource centre, a science and technology hub and an education hub, as well as restaurants and shops.
It will open its doors to the public on Saturday, 27 March and will be open from 9am to 5pm, seven days a week.
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