Evaluation of the programmatic support grant intervention for existing science centres

Abstract

The crisis of skills shortage in South Africa, which is attributed to a decline in the numbers of learners pursuing mathematics and science subjects, especially in the previously disadvantaged communities, has necessitated some government departments, including the Department of Science and Technology (DST), undertaking drastic measures to resolve the situation. The DST recently launched the Youth into Science strategy to enhance science and technology literacy among the youth and nurture youth talent and the potential for science, engineering and technology-based careers. The Youth into Science Strategy comprises several intervention programmes, one of which is the establishment of a network of science centres. The network of science centres was identified as a crucial infrastructure for the delivery of the youth into science strategy.