Image: Teachers engaging with new teaching tools at the NRF-SAASTA and Komatsu workshop in Mpumalanga

A group of educators from across the region gathered recently for the Komatsu Educator Workshop, a multi-day programme aimed at strengthening teaching practice and introducing innovative approaches to science education.

The workshop, which focused on practical skills and collaboration, brought together teachers eager to explore new ways of engaging learners in increasingly technology-driven classrooms.

Proceedings opened with an address by Dr James Tlhabane, Professional Officer at NRF-SAASTA. In his remarks, Dr Tlhabane outlined the strategic partnership between NRF-SAASTA, and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), noting that their shared objective is to advance science education across South Africa.

He also used the platform to highlight the significance of National Science Month, encouraging educators to play an active role in promoting learner participation.

Reflecting on the role of partnerships, Dr Tlhabane pointed to Komatsu’s continued investment in mining communities, particularly in strengthening education in areas surrounding its operations. He highlighted the broader impact of such initiatives, remarking that investing in a child ultimately benefits entire communities and the country at large.

He reminded attendees of the irreplaceable role of teachers. “No level of machinery or artificial intelligence can replace the human impact of a teacher,” he said, drawing strong agreement from the audience.

The workshop quickly shifted from theory to practice. An interactive coding and robotics session, facilitated by Techno Afrika, saw educators building and programming robots—many for the first time. The hands-on experience not only sparked enthusiasm but also demonstrated how technology can be meaningfully integrated into everyday teaching.

Participants did not leave empty-handed. Through Komatsu’s partnership with NRF-SAASTA, schools will receive robotics kits and tablets, ensuring that the lessons learned extend beyond the workshop.

On the second day, attention turned to expanding learning opportunities outside the classroom. Ms Makhanana Nkhwashu, a liaison officer at NRF-SAASTA, led a session on establishing After School Science Clubs. Teachers were guided through the registration process and participated in practical activities designed to show how easily such clubs can be implemented.

Sessions later in the day catered to different subject areas. In one, Life Sciences educators engaged with biological concepts through practical demonstrations led by Mr Armstrong Mashakeni of the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). In another, physical sciences teachers explored electricity and magnetism under the guidance of Techno Afrika’s Mr Sarai Madunde, building circuits and experimenting with electrical components. Each participant received an electrical kit to support continued hands-on learning at school level.

Environmental education took centre stage on the third day, with a workshop on the Blue Schools programme facilitated by representatives from the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON). The session introduced educators to ocean literacy and environmental awareness, offering practical activities that can be adapted for classroom use. Many participants expressed interest in incorporating the programme into their teaching, citing its relevance in developing environmentally conscious learners.

The final day focused on intellectual property, with a session led by the DSTI and National Intellectual Property Management Office (NIPMO). Teachers were introduced to key concepts around protecting innovation and creativity and worked in groups to apply their understanding.

At the end of the workshop, educators reflected on a week marked by collaboration, practical learning, and renewed motivation. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting both the relevance of the content and the value of the resources provided.

Armed with new skills and tools, attendees left with a clear mandate: to translate what they had learned into classroom practice and, in doing so, inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators.