Collaboration between government, academia, and industry drives digital inclusion as Minister Malatsi opens the STEM Lab to foster skills development in underserved communities.
Image: Henk Kruger/Cape Argus
The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, has officially launched a state-of-the-art STEM Lab at the University of Limpopo.
This advanced facility, made possible through strategic partnerships with NEMISA, STEMpower, DHL, and other stakeholders, aims to provide students and local communities with essential digital and STEM-related skills, preparing them for a future driven by technology and innovation.
Malatsi emphasised the transformative potential of the lab for the surrounding communities, including Mamotintane, Ga-Motholo, and Mankweng.
“This STEM Lab represents hope, progress, and opportunity. For the youth in these areas, it is a gateway to skills in artificial intelligence, robotics, and data analytics,” he said.
“For educators, it’s a chance to inspire the next generation of innovators, and for the unemployed, it is an opportunity to gain meaningful skills for employment or entrepreneurship.”
The STEM Lab forms part of a broader initiative by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies to expand digital inclusion across South Africa.
This includes increasing access to affordable internet, devices, and skills training, while positioning South Africa as a leading destination for ICT investment.
The lab’s focus on STEM education, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics aims to equip students with the skills needed in high-demand fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and data analytics.
These fields are at the forefront of technological advancement, driving innovation and economic growth globally.
Malatsi highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, academia, and industry in achieving these goals.
“This lab is not just a resource for the university but for the entire community. It is proof of what we can achieve when these sectors work together to create sustainable, scalable solutions for digital inclusion,” he said.
The launch at the University of Limpopo is part of a wider rollout, with similar STEM Labs being established at Walter Sisulu University, King Hintsa TVET College, Ehlanzeni TVET College, and the Central University of Technology.
Malatsi has called on all stakeholders to intensify efforts in creating opportunities for underserved communities through education and skills development.
“Let us harness the power of STEM education to build a South Africa where technology serves as a bridge to inclusion and opportunity, ensuring that no one is left behind,” he said.
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