Media Statement: Committee Welcomes National Science Month and Calls on South Africans to Participate in It

Press Releases

Parliament, Friday, 3 July 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation welcomes National Science Month (NSM) and commends the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) for its continued commitment to public science engagement.

The committee has consistently encouraged the DSTI and its entities to expand initiatives that promote public awareness and appreciation of science, technology and innovation. It encourages all Members of Parliament and the public to follow, participate in, and support the various events planned during NSM. The committee also looks forward to receiving a briefing from the DSTI on the outcomes.

The NSM which will be launched tomorrow, 4 July at the Vaal University of Technology, Vanderbijlpark will take place under the theme: “Science, Technology and Innovation are for Everyone.” 

  1. What is National Science Month?


The DSTI established NSM in 2000 as its flagship science engagement programme. In 2025, Hon Minister Prof Blade Nzimande announced that from 2026, this month would become NSM, allowing for broader participation and greater public engagement.

NSM is an annual nationwide initiative led by South Africa's DSTI to celebrate and promote the value of science, technology and innovation in society. It provides opportunities for the general public, learners, teachers, academics, decision-makers, industry, journalists and government departments, among others, to engage with science through exhibitions, workshops, public lectures, school activities and community events.

  1. What is the aim of the National Science Month?


NSM aims to increase public understanding of science by popularising science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), promoting public awareness, and encouraging active engagement with science. It also seeks to inspire communities, young people, scientists and innovators to collaborate in advancing science-based solutions. The initiative aims to make science more accessible and meaningful while demonstrating how science and scientific research contribute to improving lives and addressing real societal challenges.

  1. What is the importance of National Science Month?


NSM is an important initiative that promotes public understanding of the value of science and highlights the importance of placing science, technology, and innovation at the centre of government, education, industry, and society.

  1. Target audience


NSM targets a wide range of stakeholders, including the public, learners, educators, students, researchers, industry, tourists, decision-makers, journalists, research institutions and government departments. It fosters a culture of science and innovation while promoting an inclusive society in which all South Africans can participate in and benefit from science and innovation.

  1. What are the themes?


Block themes and days

  • Technology and innovation (days 1–5)


  • Science in human health (days 6–10)


  • Environmental conservation and management (day 11)


  • Science in service delivery (day 12)


  • Science in education (days 13–16)


  • Science journalism day (day 17)


  • Science for human rights (day 18)


  • Climate change (days 19–24)


  • Space science and astronomy (day 25)


  • Decolonising knowledge systems (day 26)


  • Science diplomacy (day 27)


  • Science for decision makers (Day 28)


  • South Africans' relationship with science (day 29)


  • Public awareness of research institutions (day 30)


  • Science and youth (day 31)



  1. How do you get involved?

Link: https://www.saasta.ac.za/national-science-month/

  1. NSM Framework Document 

Link: https://www.saasta.ac.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/NSM-2026-Implementation-Framework.pdf

Tag: Department of Science, Technology and Innovation

ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION, MS LUSIZO MAKHUBELA.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Mr Mava Lukani (Mr)
Parliamentary Communication Services
Cell: 081 503 1840
Email: mlukani@parliament.gov.za