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The Public Understanding of Laser Science and Engineering (PULSE) programme focuses on raising awareness of the importance of laser research and its applications amongst the South African public, especially learners and students. In this way, the CSIR is contributing to learners taking maths and science at school and encouraging students to study laser physics and engineering.
Focus
- Scholars
PULSE undertakes outreach programmes during which schools are visited by researchers from the CSIR National Laser Centre. These visits, and instances when learners visit the CSIR, are aimed at raising laser science awareness. At school level, common laser applications are shown to the pupils, and the main emphasis is on building interest in mathematics and physical science.
- Students
PULSE hosts exhibits at important research forums such as the South African Institute of Physics (SAIP) conference. PULSE also participates at open days hosted by tertiary education institutions (TEIs) to raise laser science awareness amongst the students.
- Educators
PULSE often hosts educator workshops with the aim of empowering science teachers with basic skills in their disciplines. At these workshops both theoretical and practical concepts are transferred. Educators are also invited to the CSIR where they learn about a variety of practical applications of lasers in an industry-type environment.
- Community
PULSE supports exploratoriums and often hosts displays on laser science and optics. Permanent displays can be seen at the University of Pretoria Sci-Enza, the University of Zululand science centre, the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) and the Scibono Discovery Centre.
In addition to the initiatives mentioned, PULSE participates in important national activities such as the Cell C - Take a Girl Child to work and other annual science shows such as Science Unlimited, the Grahamstown Science Festival (SciFest) and the National SET week.
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