The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) is proud to announce the launch of National Science Week 2024, an annual initiative aimed at raising awareness around the important role science, technology, and innovation play in everyday life. Themed “Living in a High-Tech World: Should We Be Concerned?”, the week-long event will explore the complexities of our increasingly tech-dependent society. This briefing offers the media in South Africa an opportunity to facilitate the reinforcement of media as a social institution by, among others, disseminating and providing scientists and the public a platform to exchange science knowledge to the benefit of the country and individual citizens’ lives.
The official launch will take place on 28 September 2024 at the Central University of Technology, Bloemfontein, setting the stage for a week of dynamic discussions and activities that will take place nationwide from 30 September to 6 October 2024.
Event Highlights and Focus Areas:
National Science Week will dive into various aspects of technology and its impact on society through daily themed discussions, designed to be accessible to everyone:
- Day 1 (30 Sept.) – Technology Literacy:
A simplified breakdown of what technology truly entails. This session will ensure that participants leave with a better understanding of the term “technology” and its significance. - Day 2 (31 Sept.) – Local and Global Dependency on Technology:
We will explore how people, both locally and globally, have become increasingly reliant on technology. Discussions will focus on the indicators of this dependency and its potential consequences. - Day 3 (1 Oct.) – Societal Benefits and Drawbacks of Technology:
While technology has become integral to modern society, this session will not only celebrate its benefits but also address the potential social issues it fuels, including digital addiction and privacy concerns. - Day 4 (2 Oct.) – Disruptive Technology Explained:
A look at the concept of disruptive technology and how it is reshaping industries and everyday life. Participants will also explore what the future holds for such technologies. - Day 5 (3 Oct.) – Technology Access and Governance:
This day will focus on the governance of technology access, examining relevant laws, regulatory bodies, and how governments, particularly in South Africa, control and monitor the use of emerging technologies. - Day 6 (4 Oct.) – Technological Developments at Home and Abroad:
South Africa’s role in global technology innovation will be discussed. This session will highlight the nation’s homegrown technologies, showcase world-class advancements, and look at the policies enabling technological progress. - Day 7 (5 Oct.) – The Future of Technology: Should We Be Concerned?
After a week of thought-provoking discussions, this final day will address the burning question: Should we be concerned about society’s growing reliance on technology? Experts will weigh in on the future implications of this dependence.
Join Us for a Thought-Provoking Journey into the World of Technology!
National Science Week 2024 invites people from all walks of life—students, academics, business professionals, and the public—to engage in this critical conversation about the future of technology and its role in shaping our society.
The national programme will provide the media with significance and potential newsworthiness of NSW. For more information, event schedules, and participation details, visit our official website https://www.saasta.ac.za/programmes/focus-weeks/national-science-week/ or follow us on social media
