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mGenAfrica launch aims to increase the awareness on STEM, genomic careers

17 Aug 2018

An innovative internet-based platform and mobile application, mGenAfrica, which aims to increase awareness and interest in careers in genomics and in the STEM fields will be launched on Saturday, 18 August 2018 at the New Lecture Theatre, Upper Campus, University of Cape Town.

Viacheslav Iakobchuk via 123RF

The platform aims to improve knowledge, attitudes and practises of high school learners towards participation in genomics and life sciences research; and improve knowledge and attitudes towards life sciences high school curriculum. For the research staff, the platform aims to improve skills and attitudes towards public engagement activities.

Dr Vicky Nembaware, a project coordinator and a bioinformatician commented: "mGenAfrica makes learning life sciences fun and promotes careers in this field." Initiatives such as mGenAfrica are preparing South Africa for the future and moulding the next generations to be at the forefront of technology and science.

The platform promotes activities such as quizzes, freely accessible learning material including videos, profiles of staff working in life sciences and live chat sessions, a career corner, translation corner and online competitions.

Promoting STEM careers through TechnoGirl programme

15 Aug 2018

The launch will include mGenAfrica hosting the finals of a Grade 12 learner quiz competition organised in partnership with the Metro South Education District (MSED) (Western Cape Education Department).

The platform is an initiative started by the Pan African Bioinformatics Network for H3Africa and is supported by various stakeholders and collaborators including the Human Heredity and Health in Africa Consortium working groups (Community Engagement and Education & Coordinated Training); the Sickle Africa Data Coordinating Center, the Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa and the MSED.