Deputy Dean of Teaching and Learning at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof Vanessa Steenkamp has been elected as Deputy Chairperson of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNSP) Council.

Prof Steenkamp was appointed by the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Honourable Dr Blade Nzimande to the SACNASP Council, thereafter the Council members elected the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson according to the Natural Scientific Professions Act, 2003 (Act No. 27 of 2003).

Prof Steenkamp is honoured to be elected as Vice-Chairperson of the SACNSP Council and shares that this appointment aligns well with her role of Deputy Dean: Teaching and Learning at the University of Pretoria. According to Prof Steenkamp, both roles are focussed on developing skills sets in learners to ensure that they are more adapted for the place of work, teaching that is student-centred and encourages critical thinking, ultimately resulting in life-long learners.

 “I look forward to actively participating in the national system of innovation that will help the country achieve its national development priorities by promoting change through innovation, enabling all South Africans to enjoy the economic, socio-political and intellectual benefits of science, technology and innovation” she shared. “This will also involve incorporating technology and thus embracing the 4^th industrial revolution. All in all addressing skill sets required of the 21st-century learner”, she added.

The role of the SACNASP is to provide long-term direction for South Africa by promoting the growing role of science, technology and innovation in a more prosperous and inclusive society; making the economy more competitive; improving the daily lives of South Africans; identifying benefits and threats related to global trends. The Council will proactively engage and advise the Council for Higher Education (CHE) and various stakeholders regarding the role of the natural scientific professions in South Africa. The Council also acts in an advisory capacity with the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation.