Chemistry Outreach in the Eastern Cape:

A Science & Communication Initiative between Rhodes

University and Bristol University, UK.

S.R. Abel, S.N. Sunassee,

A. Meyer, M. Tukulula, J.D. Sewry*j.sewry@ru.ac.za

Background

• Mathematics and science teacher shortage

• Schools under resourced or teachers cannot use resources

• 2008 matric results:

Physical Science – only 15% achieved a pass above 50%.

Rhodes University Initiatives

• Khanya Maths & Science Club

• Chemsoc Outreach

• Chemistry Teacher Training

Collaboration between RU Chemistry Dept, DoE & RU Education Dept

• Scifest Africa

Bristol University Initiatives

• Bristol ChemLabS• Outreach

• Schools– Primary

– Secondary

• Teachers• Wider Community

• Summer School• ‘A Pollutants Tale’• Practical Chemistry Workshops

Common Goals

• Improving Standards of Science Education in Schools

• Empowering science teachers

• Making Science accessible, relevant and fun

• Improving Practical Work

• Encouraging young people to see science as a career option

Fact-finding Visit to Bristol School of Chemistry

Fact-finding Visit to Bristol School of Chemistry

Junior School Chemistry Workshops – RU Chem Dept

High School Chemistry Lecture Demonstrations – Grahamstown

Schools

Where to from here?

• Ongoing Collaboration with Bristol School of Chemistry ChemlabS

• Taking Chemistry demonstrations and lecture demonstrations further afield

• Training Teachers • Encouraging outreach as an aid to learning

amongst Rhodes Chemistry Undergraduates (Service Learning)

• Using young scientists to communicate the relevance and importance of science to the wider community

Acknowledgements

• Rhodes University • Staff and Students: Bristol University School of

Chemistry• Dr Linda Sellou and Dr Preeti Kaur• Prof Mike Davies-Coleman• Rhodes Postgraduates• Afrox and Sasol

Photographs – S. Sunnassee, J. Sewry, A. Meyer, S. Abel and Bristol ChemLabS website