Vaal University of Technology completes R5 million revamp of science labs

Budding scientists attending the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) will have shiny new equipment to play (and most importantly learn) with, after the tertiary institution recently completed a revamp of its science laboratories as part of a project that cost roughly R5 million.

The revamp, which was funded thanks to a grant from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), was recently unveiled and showcased at VUT’s Vanderbijlpark Campus.

As for what the investment was put towards, the institution explained that it now has modernised six of its specialist teaching laboratories and one postgraduate learning space in the University’s existing F and C Buildings.

The facilities are intended to will strengthen practical teaching, learning and research in health sciences and chemistry, as well as giving students access to improved environments in which theory can be tested and scientific skills developed.

“As we commemorate 60 years of excellence, innovation and impact, we do so not only by reflecting on our rich history, but by demonstrating our continued commitment to investing in the future. Today’s unveiling of refurbished laboratories is a clear expression of that commitment,” noted Professor Khehla Ndlovu, VUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, in a release to Hypertext.

As for the different undergraduate and postgraduate studies that the newly refurbished labs will be enabling, VUT outlined three different areas. These include:

• Health sciences: The Cell Biology and Genetics Laboratory (F109) supports practical learning in cellular processes and genetics, while the Clinical Pathology Laboratory (F103) supports teaching in laboratory methods and the scientific study of diseases.
• Chemistry: Four undergraduate laboratories in Physical Chemistry (C206), Inorganic Chemistry (C207), Analytical Chemistry (C209) and Organic Chemistry (C210) support experimentation, measurement, chemical analysis, synthesis and the practical application of core chemistry principles.
• Postgraduate learning: The postgraduate sitting space (C108) provides a dedicated environment for advanced study, research preparation, data analysis and academic collaboration.

“It is an investment in the student who dreams of becoming a scientist, the researcher pursuing solutions to challenges in healthcare, industry and environmental sustainability, and the academic who inspires the next generation of innovators. Every graduate who leaves these laboratories with practical skills and scientific competence strengthens South Africa’s capacity to innovate, compete and grow,” enthused Ndlovu.

For those wanting to pursue studies in any of the areas listed above, VUT now has the equipment and environment in place to meet the latest science laboratory requirements, which should certainly assist in convincing learners to apply at the university.

[Images CC BY 4.0 Vaal University on Flickr]