Exhibition showcasing some of the technologies the STEM Centre Lab is set to implement, aimed at boosting small businesses
By Johannes Selepe| mosela.selepe@ul.ac.za
The University of Limpopo (UL) has reached another transformative milestone with the launch of its state-of-the-art STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Centre Lab. Officially unveiled by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Honourable Solly Malatsi, the lab marks a significant step towards bridging South Africa’s digital divide
“We live in a time when technology influences every aspect of life, yet too many South Africans remain excluded,” Minister Malatsi stated. “This lab isn’t just a facility; it’s a gateway to opportunities, allowing young people to dream bigger and achieve more.”
Building on the success of the Limpopo Digital Innovation Lab (LDIL), launched earlier this year to provide youth with opportunities in software development, the new STEM Centre Lab—developed in collaboration with the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA)—is designed to empower high school learners, university students, and unemployed youth from local communities such as Mamotintane, Ga-Motholo, and Mankweng through STEM-related initiatives.
Equipped with cutting-edge facilities focused on drone technology, mobile device repair, and other STEM-related activities, the lab provides both practical training and entrepreneurial pathways to support the next generation of innovators and leaders.
“For a child who once saw technology as out of reach, this lab opens doors to careers in robotics, data science, and artificial intelligence,” Minister Malatsi added. “For unemployed youth, it offers in-demand skills, creating pathways to employment or entrepreneurship.”
Minister Malatsi said that this initiative is part of the government’s broader goal of achieving universal internet access by 2029, promoting digital literacy, and positioning South Africa as Africa’s leader in ICT innovation.
UL Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Mahlo Mokgalong, expressed gratitude to partners such as STEMpower Inc., DHL, SmartAID, and Ripples for Change for making the project a reality.
“This lab aligns with our mission to foster innovation, empower communities, and enhance education. It’s a stepping stone to transform Limpopo and beyond,” he said.
Prof Mokgalong highlighted the lab’s capabilities, including training in drone applications for agriculture and security, and fostering entrepreneurship through mobile device repair. “We aim to instil a love for STEM among learners, preparing them for a future where technology is the norm.”
The launch partners unanimously agreed on the lab’s role in addressing the digital divide.
Galit Cohen, Ripples for Change: “This is the fifth lab of its kind in South Africa, and it will inspire countless learners to pursue STEM careers and develop innovations to propel the country forward.”
UL’s STEM lab joins an expanding network of facilities launched by NEMISA and STEMpower at institutions such as Walter Sisulu University, King Hintsta TVET, Ehlanzeni TVET, and Central University of Technology.
Nolwazi Tshikala, DHL Head of HR, South Africa: “Digital transformation is key to changing lives. Through this lab, we aim to help African youth compete on a global scale.”
Lionel Adendorf, NEMISA Board Chairperson: “This facility will offer both online and in-person training, especially for disadvantaged communities. It’s an opportunity for young people, women, and people living with disabilities to become tech-savvy and self-reliant.”
Amongst others, this initiative targets high school learners and unemployed youth, with the first cohort of 30 students already trained in digital literacy at UL. More learners are expected to enrol in January for a three- to six-month programme focusing on drone technology, mobile device repair, and other STEM-related activities. It promises to be a transformative step forward for digital literacy and innovation in Limpopo communities.
Learners from various communities recently participated in the STEM Centre Lab, receiving training in digital literacy