Madam Deputy Speaker, the National Science Week is an initiative of the Department of Science and Technology. It is a countrywide celebration of science and took place from 2-7 August. The National Science Week was celebrated in all nine provinces simultaneously at multiple sites per province. The South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement, known as Saasta, a business unit of the National Research Foundation, is the national project manager for the National Science Week 2010.
The National Science Week is intended to expose the public educators and learners to science-based careers, particularly disadvantaged sections of the population. We need to ensure that our children make informed decisions about the subjects they choose at school. It is our duty as parents, guardians, caregivers and teachers to foster an interest in maths and science in our learners.
The ANC urges all educators involved in teaching science and maths to make use of the booklets distributed annually by the Department of Science and Technology on science, engineering and technology careers. Let's prepare our children for the ever-changing job market by giving them tools and knowledge. Together we can do more. Thank you. [Applause.]