FSEA Partners with Rivoningo Education Centre to Spark the Next Generation of Scientists

The Faculty of Science, Engineering, and Agriculture (FSEA) at the University of Venda (UNIVEN) hosted an insightful career guidance session on 15 August 2025 for Grade 11 and 12 learners from Rivoningo Education Centre. Held at the UNIVEN Disability Unit (CHETL Training Room), the event aimed to expose learners to academic opportunities within the faculty and provide guidance on career paths in science and agriculture.

The session was facilitated by the Faculty Manager Mrs Julia Sigama and graced by the presence of the FSEA Deputy Dean of Teaching and Learning, Dr Odeshnee Naicker and administrative staff from the Office of the Executive Dean. Departmental representatives from across the faculty also attended and delivered engaging presentations on their respective programmes.

The programme began with opening remarks by Dr Odeshnee Naicker, who introduced herself as a Plant Disease Specialist and emphasised the impact of science in addressing global chal-lenges such as food insecurity. Delivering a message on behalf of the Executive Dean, Professor Natasha Potgieter, Dr Naicker encouraged learners to consider careers in science, under the theme: “Ignite the Spark: This is a Call to All Future Scientists.”

In her motivational address, Dr Naicker challenged misconceptions about science being inac-cessible or overly difficult. She stressed that science thrives on curiosity, persistence, and imag-ination, and is open to learners from all backgrounds. Dr Naicker underscored the importance of diversity in scientific innovation and called on learners to be bold, inquisitive, and resilient in their pursuit of knowledge.

Mrs Sigama, Faculty Manager of FSEA, provided a detailed introduction to the faculty. She high-lighted its commitment to advancing research, education, and innovation in diverse fields of science and agriculture. Mrs Sigama informed learners that the faculty comprises 15 depart-ments, each offering specialised programmes designed to equip students with skills to address real-world problems.

She urged learners to take full advantage of the day’s presentations and ask questions to better understand what each department offers. Her message focused on the importance of making informed decisions based on personal interests and strengths, rather than peer influence. She emphasised that understanding entry requirements and career pathways is essential for learn-ers aiming to pursue science-related studies.

During the session, representatives from departments including Biological Sciences, Biochem-istry and Microbiology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Computational Sciences, Animal Science, Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, Agricultural and Rural Engineering, Plant and Soil Science, Forestry, and Food Science and Technology delivered presentations. These presen-tations covered the academic programmes offered, recommended subject choices for prospec-tive students, university entry requirements, and possible career paths. Each department high-lighted unique opportunities within their field and encouraged learners to align their interests and strengths with their future career choices. This comprehensive session provided valuable information to support learners in planning their educational and career pathways.
A heartfelt vote of thanks was delivered by teachers from Rivoningo Education Centre. Ms N Tantiso, a UNIVEN graduate and first-year teacher at the centre, explained that she brought learners to the event to inspire them to make informed academic choices. She noted that some learners choose subjects based on peer influence and later struggle, hence the importance of proper career guidance. She expressed her hope that such events become an annual initiative.
Mr F Chitehwe, another teacher from the school, expressed his appreciation for the engaging and informative presentations. He admitted that he had not anticipated the depth of the session but found it extremely beneficial. He thanked the faculty for the resources provided and extend-ed special gratitude to Dr Naicker for her presence and leadership. Mr Chitehwe concluded with a call for continued collaboration between the school and the university.

for continued collaboration
Following the presentations, learners participated in a guided campus tour that included visits to several departments within FSEA. The tour allowed learners to experience the university environ-ment firsthand and explore the practical elements of various academic programmes.
Learners were able to interact with academic staff, observe laboratory setups, and engage in brief demonstrations. The experience offered a clearer perspective on the daily activities of uni-versity students and academic life. The tour served as an effective bridge between theoretical career guidance and practical exposure, inspiring learners to see themselves as future students of the University of Venda.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811