Honourable Deputy Minister for Science , Technology and Innovation DM Gina, CEO from the Engineering Council of SA Dr Bridget Ssamula , Chairman of Market Place academy Prof Wiseman Nkhulu, CEO of Market Place Ms Chantyl Mulder, Chief Sustainability Officer from De Loite Ms Ashley Theophanides, The Dean of Education and Prof Olivier from NMU, other esteemed colleagues from HEIs, Mr Siwzwe Nxasana, GDE Officials and teachers, guests, industry leaders, and valued partners,
Good morning. It is my pleasure to address you today on behalf of the Gauteng Department of Education. I bring special greetings from our MEC Mr Chiloane, our HoD Mr Mmutlana and our DDG for the CMD Branch Adv Bengtson. As we gather here at the STEAM Seminar 2025 with a shared vision—to explore and promote Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics as essential pillars of education in the 21st century.
Introduction
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the fields of STEAM are at the forefront of innovation, driving economic growth, technological advancement, and societal transformation. As the Gauteng Department of Education, we are deeply committed to integrating STEAM education into our curriculum to ensure that our learners are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for the future.
This seminar is a unique platform to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, promote equity and inclusion in STEAM fields, and discuss emerging trends shaping education and industry. The work we do today will have lasting impacts on how we prepare our youth for the jobs and challenges of tomorrow.
The Importance of STEAM in Education
The integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics is not just about acquiring technical skills; it is about developing critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and adaptability—qualities that are essential for success in the modern workforce.
In Gauteng, we have already made significant strides in expanding STEAM education through:
- ROS Programme-
- We have Launched 35 SOS across five disciplines namely Maths Science and ICT, Engineering, Commerce and Entrepreneurship, Sports and Performing and Creative Arts. Each of the 35 schools also have a particular Focus e.g. MSICT with a focus on Research and Innovation, another one with a focus on renewable energy, Engineering SOS with a focus on Manufacturing and Logistics to mention but a few.
- Twinning programme- we have 40 pairs of twinning schools (pairing well resources suburb schools with less resourced township schools, with a focus three key objectives including (a)improved learner achievement, (b)Social cohesion and (c)sharing of resources allows for transference of skills between best teachers, collaboration between learners towards improved learning outcomes.
- MCSP- has three key areas where we want to ensure that every learner in our schools leave the basic education at the end of grade 12 with not only a matric certificate but with 12 other accredited or industry based certificates ..preparing them for the workplace as well as tertiary education opportunities. We have three buckets of skills namely General skills including K53, First Aid Basic Fire fighting , 4IR including Coding and robotics, Drone Technology , Rocketry and AI. The third bucket is Technical Skills including plumbing, Welding, EGD and Automotive
- Technical High School Strategy – Some of the key components of our THS Strategy Increase learner enrolment/participation in technical subjects and Introduction of VOC subjects in Grade 8 & 9, Advocate the Technical streams and dispel negative perceptions about it, Promote Technical subjects for careers in Engineering and Technology and as Technicians and Artisans, Secure skills training programs for learners in learnerships and workplace experience as well as Develop constructive partnerships with industry
- Curriculum reforms that incorporate more hands-on, project-based learning.
- Investments in technology, such as the Gamma device (piloting schools), to support digital learning in classrooms.
- Teacher development programs that equip educators with the tools and knowledge needed to integrate STEAM effectively into their teaching practices.
- Industry partnerships, like our collaboration with Market Place Academy, to provide learners with real-world exposure to STEAM careers.
Key Highlights of STEAM Seminar 2025
We are excited about the wealth of knowledge and expertise being shared today and look forward to an exciting programme which includes:
- Keynote addresses from leading experts in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics who will shed light on emerging innovations and trends relevant to education.
- Panel discussions on the role of artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainable engineering in education and industry.
- Interactive workshops that demonstrate practical ways of incorporating STEAM learning in the classroom.
- Networking sessions that will enable educators, policymakers, and industry leaders to form partnerships that drive meaningful change in STEAM education.
The Role of Partnerships in STEAM Advancement
Collaboration between government, educational institutions, and private sector partners is critical for the successful implementation of STEAM education. The Gauteng Department of Education recognizes the importance of partnerships in advancing our mission to provide high-quality, future-ready education for all learners.
Organizations like Market Place Academy play a crucial role in bringing cutting-edge learning tools to our classrooms. Through these collaborations, we ensure that devices like the Gamma device and other digital learning materials are accessible to educators and students, enhancing both teaching and learning experiences.
Market Place Academy has also brough a number of partners on board to support GDE schools. Training of teachers, supporting our ROS Programme including our SOS Festival (including Prizes for our schools and learners) and the provision of LTSM to support teaching and learning in the classroom.
Commitment to the Future
As we look ahead, our commitment is clear:
- Expanding digital access to ensure that every learner, regardless of background, benefits from technology-enhanced education.
- Strengthening teacher training in STEAM subjects to enhance the quality of instruction in our schools.
- Fostering a culture of innovation by encouraging young minds to explore, experiment, and create solutions to real-world problems.
Closing Remarks
Ladies and gentlemen, STEAM education is not just about subjects; it is about shaping the future. The opportunities before us are vast, but they require dedication, collaboration, and investment. By working together—government, educators, industry partners, and the broader community—we can ensure that our learners are not only prepared for the future but are also leading it.
I encourage each of you to actively engage in the next 2 days discussions, form valuable connections, and take what you learn here back to your classrooms, businesses, and communities.
Let us commit to a future where STEAM education is accessible, inclusive, and transformative for all learners in Gauteng and beyond.
Thank you.