Description of project:

The Boyden Science centre is based in Bloemfontein and houses the second largest telescope in South Africa. The Centre is looking to expand by developing their educational facilities and building an auditorium, thereby creating a learning centre that can offer learners and the community a unique experience about space, science and technology.

The Shuttleworth Foundation's involvement:

The Centre requested funding from the Shuttleworth Foundation for the building of the auditorium and related equipment.

Aims and objectives:

The project aims to promote SET (Science, education and technology) awareness amongst learners in the Free State, to improve the quality of science education and to promote enthusiasm for natural sciences and related careers as well as the need for environmental conservation.

Updated Status (December 2003):

August the 27th 2003 saw Planet Mars’ closest approach to Planet Earth in 59619 years. This was an auspicious occasion marked by the rector of the University of the Free State who presented the count-down for the ground-breaking ceremony. At exactly 11h51, as Mars aligned closest to Earth, ground at the Boyden Science Centre was broken by Prof Matie Hoffman to begin construction which is planned to conclude early next year. The roof-wetting will be celebrated upon completion, and the auditorium will then be opened to the public for viewing and experiencing exhibitions.

Workshops and educational activities are already running successfully with maximum attendance and input from surrounding schools, giving impetus to the pending auditorium as a future interactive educational venue.