National Science Month (NSM) is a flagship national initiative that places science and innovation at the centre of society and brings it closer to everyday South Africans. The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and its implementing entity, the National Research Foundation’s South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF-SAASTA) have been at the centre of coordinating the initiative since 2000 for voluntary participation by South Africans in all corners of the country.

With a strong 25-year-old history originally as National Science Week and recently expanding to a month-long format in 2026, NSM is all about science engagement.

The initiative is built on the recognition that science can change lives only if opportunities are created for knowledge sharing between scientists and citizens.  Science is dependent on society, and vice versa. 

The success of the platform starts by acknowledging that every South African can participate in NSM, regardless of background or expertise. You don’t need to be a scientist to engage with science – all you need is curiosity.

Science is a broad topic that includes fields such as engineering, medicine, agriculture, mathematics, social sciences and humanities, technology, innovation, natural and physical sciences, indigenous knowledge, and many more.

Are you or your community struggling with a challenge? Perhaps science can offer a solution. Do you have the kind of curious mind that could benefit from studies in Science, Technology, Engineering and Technology (STEM)? Reach out to a scientist in that field and understand what a career in the sciences requires.

In July 2026, join the NSM Movement and discover how science shapes your everyday life. From improving healthcare to tackling climate change and working for clean water: science is at the heart of South Africa’s future.

Bring your curiosity and join the conversation!

Be part of the movement – share your experience on social media using #NationalScienceMonth2026 or #ScienceForEveryone and share your story using the hashtag #MyScienceStory.