Windhoek, Feb 14 — The Africa Millimetre Telescope (AMT) Mobile Planetarium celebrated its first year of operations after
completing 63 events and reaching over 9 000 students and learners in 2024.
The mobile planetarium, which is a collaboration between the University of Namibia and AMT Project
the Radboud University in the Netherlands and the Dutch School for Astronomy (NOVA), is an
inflatable, interactive facility designed to bring the wonders of space to learners. The mobile
planetarium visited different schools in the country to provide astronomical education and inspire
young minds in the field of astrophysics and science, technology, engineering and mathematics
(STEM).
In November 2023, Nedbank Namibia pledged a total of N$450 000 to the project for 3 years, aimed
at helping the team in successfully executing planetarium events at different schools across the
country. In the past year alone, the mobile planetarium reached an impressive 9 000 students,
teachers and community members. The team hosted 63 events at schools in five regions namely,
Khomas, Hardap, Karas, Oshana and Omusati, ensuring that children from diverse backgrounds
could experience the magic of the planetarium.
The project gained international attention when it was showcased at the 2024 International
Astronomical Union (IAU) General Assembly in Cape Town, South Africa. The assembly hosted
notable figures in astrology, such as the 2011 Nobel Prize winner, Prof Brian Schmidt, as well as the
Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation of South Africa, Nomalungelo Gina.
Nedbank Namibia’s sponsorship of the Mobile Planetarium Project reflects its commitment to
education and community development. By investing in programmes that inspire young minds, the
bank aims to contribute to a brighter future for all.
‘We believe that education is the key to unlock potential and drive progress,’ says Nedbank Namibia
Communications and Public Relations Manager, Selma Kaulinge.
‘The AMT Mobile Planetarium Project has been a shining example of how we can make a meaningful
impact by bringing science to life for students. As money experts who do good, we are incredibly proud of the initiative’s achievements over the past year and look forward to seeing how it continues
to inspire future generations.’
The AMT Mobile Planetarium Programme liaison, Zandré Duvenhage, mentioned that the team will
continue the planetarium events with a focus on reaching more schools in remote areas in 2025.
‘We are excited about the ongoing growth of the project, including new trips to remote areas like
Katima in Namibia’s Zambezi Region, where we will be expanding our reach even further. Nedbank
Namibia’s support is critical in helping us achieve these goals,’ he said.
Duvenhage also added that the bank’s contribution has not only covered the running costs of the
project but also allowed Nedbank to compensate a number of the student presenters, who have used
the funding to support their studies.
‘This dual impact – of sustaining the project and investing in the future of young Namibians – has truly
been invaluable,’ Duvenhage concluded.
AYN
