Take maths and science seriously, students urged
Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Wednesday February 8, 2017 17:03
The Department of Research Science and Technology (DRST) deputy director, Boitumelo Batungamili said Batswana had misconceptions that these particular subjects were difficult.
Speaking at the Science Communication Workshop yesterday, Batungamili explained that unlike history, which differed depending on a country’s past, science and maths were based on facts that were applicable worldwide. She urged parents to instill a love of the subjects in their children at a tender age.
“It is high time we encourage our children to do science and mathematics. Let’s go tell our children that these subjects are just like any other. They have to appreciate them at an early age because they possess so much knowledge in the outer space of our everyday life,” she said.
The deputy director pointed out that the poor uptake of maths and science in schools was contributing to the low number of scientists in Botswana. Batungamilii said she hoped to see Batswana learners becoming world-renowned researchers, astrologists and leaders in other science-related professions.
The deputy director said local scientists were facing a number of challenges hindering their progression. “Their research is not 100% due to lack of resources and funding,” she said. “In order to succeed, adequate resources and funds have to be put in science and research. “I call upon the private sector, external partners and individuals to support local scientists and researchers.” Batungamili also noted that researchers in Botswana had a habit of not cooperating in their projects.
“We have different players in our field but the problem is we are not working together. Each player is doing his/her own thing instead of working together. We cannot go anywhere if we continue like this,” she said. Meanwhile, Weekend Post editor, Aubrey Lute told scientists that in order for their stories to be published in local media, they must make them palatable to the general public.
“The media is a mirror of the society. The society has low or no interest in science. They want stories that are appealing and sensational. For you as our partners to get your stories published, strike a balanced partnership that promotes science. It is up to you as scientists to find better ways to package your stories about either DNAs, zoology or others,” he said.
Lute added that the lack of coordination and relationship between local scientists and the media made it impossible for the media to report science-related news.