Minister of Science and Technology, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, will officially open the National Science Festival at the Monument on the 9th of March 2018.

While recently appointed into the said portfolio, Kubayi-Ngubane is not new to the science and technology space. From 2014 to 2017, she served as the Chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Telecommunications and Postal Services, playing a critical role in the legislation of ICT in education policy. The policy set parameters for the establishment of Classrooms of the Future and other key programmes that have helped South Africa’s giant leap forward into a future where ICT skills, science and technology are at the heart of development. Kubayi-Ngubane previously served as the Minister of Energy and Minister of Communications. In the latter portfolio, she contributed significantly in strengthening the broadcasting digital migration project.

Kubayi-Ngubane is not only passionate about science and technology as a vehicle for economic growth and development, but about its potential to contribute to communities by harnessing untapped potential and inspiring innovation that will transform society meaningfully.

“It is through science and technology that we can truly see the world for what it is and what it has the potential to become. And it is only when we understand our environment that we can fashion it for our development and create a better life for all. For this reason, I am very happy that the SciFest is rooted in our community with all its diversity”.

The Minister’s keynote address will begin at 18h30.