Orange Farm High School officially received a new Science and Mathematics Laboratory during a handover and launch ceremony hosted by the Siyaphambili Project on 30 July, marking a significant milestone in improving science education at the school.
The initiative was aimed at addressing the shortage of practical science facilities and providing learners with a modern space where they can develop critical scientific and mathematical skills through hands-on learning.
Speaking at the launch, Siyaphambili Project founder Florence Mlweli said the laboratory was established in response to the growing need to equip young people with the knowledge and practical skills required for future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
“The idea behind this project came from recognising the lack of critical skills development opportunities available to many learners. We wanted to create a space where children can learn beyond textbooks, explore science practically and develop the confidence to pursue careers in these fields,” said Mlweli.
She added that quality education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming communities and creating opportunities for future generations, describing the laboratory as an investment in both learners and the community.
For Orange Farm High, Physical Sciences teacher Mr Nduli, the new laboratory represents a major improvement after years of teaching without adequate facilities.
He explained that the lack of a fully equipped laboratory had forced teachers to rely on simulations or seek assistance from organisations such as SciBono to conduct practical experiments.
“Science is best taught through hands-on experiments. Before this laboratory, we had to rely on simulations or invite organisations like SciBono to assist us because we didn’t have the facilities ourselves,” he said.
Nduli said practical experiments are essential in helping learners understand scientific concepts and bringing classroom lessons to life.
While welcoming the new facility, he noted that additional resources would still be needed to maximise its potential.
“This is going to be a game changer for our learners. We now have a laboratory, but we still need more apparatus, chemicals and modern equipment to ensure every science lesson includes practical experiments,” he said.
The new Science and Mathematics Laboratory is expected to significantly improve the quality of science education at Orange Farm High School by giving learners regular access to practical experiments that were previously difficult to conduct. It is also expected to inspire more learners to pursue careers in STEM fields while helping to address the shortage of critical skills in the country.
