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| About the Olympiad |
SAASTA's National Science Olympiad is a project that was started in 1964, initially for grade 12 learners with the objective of promoting Physical Science. Now in its 45th year, the competition continues to be one of SAASTA’s flagship projects. Since 2005, the project offers learners in grades 10-12 an exciting opportunity to compete in the science arena with fellow learners from across all the nine provinces and SADC countries such as Namibia and Lesotho.
The competition comprises an annual examination in science, and top learners and schools stand a chance to win over 30 exciting prizes. The top national performers also stand a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the London International Youth Science Forum. The Olympiad currently comprises two papers/streams: Physical Science (Physics and Chemistry) and Biology. Learners can choose to write either the Physical Science or Biology papers.
The main aim of the competition is to encourage excellence in science education, yet also to stimulate interest in the sciences. It seeks to inspire young people to consider careers in science and technology.
Over the years, participation and performance in the National Science has increased significantly. In 1967 (3rd version), approximately 700 learners participated compared to over 21 000 in 2009 (45th version).
Traditionally, during July vacation, a group of 100 learners who excel or demonstrate potential in the Olympiad examination, are invited to participate in a Science Focus Week consisting of stimulating lecturers, excursions, industry visits and other fun events. Four learners (from four different categories) who demonstrated exceptional performance are selected to attend the London International Youth Science Forum during July/August of each year.
During the focus week a high profile Award Giving Ceremony is always organised. Key stakeholders from Government, Science Councils, and the Business Sector are always invited. This year the National Science Focus week was held from the 29th of June until the 3rd July and a high profile Award Giving Ceremony was held on the 2nd of July 2009.
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