An elderly woman engages in a hands-on activity at the National Research Foundation (NRF) SAASTA stand at the 2024 Rand show

From the 28th of March to the 1st of April 2024, Johannesburg played host to one of Southern Africa’s most significant events, the Rand Show. This annual extravaganza, held at Nasrec, Johannesburg, stood as a testament to the vibrancy and dynamism of the region. With over 200,000 attendees, the Rand Show continues to be a beacon of excitement and learning, offering a platform for state entities, corporates, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) to showcase their innovations and educate the public on relevant topics.

Among the myriad of participants, the National Research Foundation’s South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA) stood out prominently. Since 2015, NRF-SAASTA has been an integral part of the Science, Technology, and Innovation all, later transitioning to the Government Exhibition Hall. This year, NRF-SAASTA was joined by the South African Astronomical Observatory (NRF-SAAO), enhancing the scientific richness of the exhibition.

At the NRF-SAASTA booth, a diverse team engaged with visitors young and old, sparking curiosity and fostering a deeper understanding of the scientific landscape in South Africa. Central to their mission was the promotion of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers, emphasising the importance of these fields in driving innovation and economic development.

One of the highlights of NRF-SAASTA’s participation was the promotion of the National Youth Service Programme (NYSP). This initiative seeks to empower young South Africans through training, mentorship, and community service, equipping them with skills and experiences that are invaluable in today’s competitive world.

In addition to career guidance, NRF-SAASTA also focused on general science awareness and engagement. Through interactive exhibits and demonstrations, visitors had the opportunity to explore various scientific concepts and technologies, gaining a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world and human ingenuity.

NRF-SAASTA showcased cutting-edge developments in science, engineering, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). From robotics and artificial intelligence to renewable energy and space exploration, the exhibits captivated audiences and inspired them to delve deeper into these fascinating fields.

The collaboration between NRF-SAASTA and NRF-SAAO underscored the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation in advancing scientific knowledge and innovation. Together, they demonstrated the breadth and depth of South Africa’s scientific capabilities, paving the way for future breakthroughs and discoveries. All NRF business units logos were visibly displayed to brag on the ONENRF branding drive, highlighting the unified approach of the National Research Foundation towards scientific advancement.

As the curtains drew to a close on the Rand Show 2024, NRF-SAASTA emerged with a sense of accomplishment, having successfully fulfilled its mission of educating and inspiring the public. By igniting curiosity and passion for science, technology, and innovation, NRF-SAASTA continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of South Africa and beyond.