The FAST4Future team at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) took center stage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with its vibrant hosting of the 2023 FAST4Future STEM Festival. The event featured an engaging TikTok challenge and a captivating showcase of space science, drawing attention to the university's commitment to advancing STEM education (FAST4FutureTikTok).
In an effort to merge entertainment and education, the team at Wits launched a TikTok challenge in October 2023 that encouraged students to participate in a dance and educational video challenge promoting space science. The #fast4future hashtag garnered an impressive 6099 views. However, participation was limited, with only 12 videos uploaded.
Challenges notwithstanding, two student groups showcased their dance prowess, while the School of Geoscience at Wits contributed a creative video. Additionally, FAST4Future researchers presented three videos introducing themselves, and five STEM education videos were crafted by a dedicated researcher (ProfSnow, DrEnslin, ProfFranchi). Due to the lower-than-expected participation, only first and second prizes were awarded for the dance competition.
On October 7th, 2023, the FAST4Future project took the spotlight at the Vice Chancellor's Top Achievers Day at Wits University. Professor Susan Webb demonstrated how magnetometers could map the earth's subsurface, showcasing their applications in space science. The instruments used in the demonstration mirrored those on satellites, opening up discussions about FAST4Future's pivotal role in advancing space science across Africa. Professor Susan Webb commented on the event: "Despite the challenges faced during the exam season, it's heartening to see the enthusiasm and potential in our students. The TikTok challenge was a creative way to blend fun and education, and the showcase at the Vice Chancellor's Top Achievers Day emphasized the impact FAST4Future is making in space science on the continent."
Wits continues to lead the charge in promoting STEM education and fostering a spirit of innovation among its students. The university remains committed to nurturing the next generation of scientists and researchers.
