Background

The Science Awareness Platform of SAASTA can trace its origins back to 1960, when the Museum of Science and Technology operated in temporary facilities at the Pretoria Agricultural Show Grounds. It was then known as the Permanent Exhibition of Contemporary Science with exhibitions on space, atomic energy, agricultural sciences, water and South African Antarctic expeditions. Under the auspices the SA Association for the Advancement of Science (S2A3) and in conjunction with the fledgling Foundation for Education, Science and Technology (which was responsible for the erection of the Didacta Building) the Museum moved into its new premises in 1965 and was known as the Museum for Science and Industry. It acquired a number of new exhibitions such as biology and started receiving regular visits from schools, some hundreds of kilometres distant.

The Museum of Science and Technology, well-known landmark in Pretoria CBD, closed its doors in 2007, after 47 years. The closure of the museum does not however leave the community in and around Pretoria without any excitement and knowledge of science and technology.

Through SAASTA’s support, there are new plans to further develop a Life Science Centre in the National Zoological Gardens (NZG). The historic building of the Museum of Natural History will be used for this centre. This building needs to be fully restored according to heritage requirements. It is envisaged that the NZG Life Science Centre will serve as a focal point for the science education, awareness and outreach programmes of the NZG and that it will provide a unique science experience for visitors, also involving the inhabitants of the zoo.

SAASTA, also acquired the Johannesburg Observatory site in 2003 and is currently refurbishing this site to accommodate a multifaceted interactive Science Park with a specific focus on astronomy and engineering. The first phase, which includes facilities such as science and computer laboratories, offices and space for indoor and outdoor exhibits, has been completed and the centre will soon open its doors to the public.