Did you know that femtosecond laser technology is about 10 times more accurate than the conventional approach in removing cataracts, the leading cause of blindness in South Africa?

Of every million people, 2 000 have cataracts removed every year, making it a health priority in South Africa.  The use of laser technology instead of traditional cataract surgery has improved the lives of thousands of people.

Femtosecond lasers are an example of light technology, which is being celebrated by the Department of Science and Technology during this year's National Science Week. The annual event, which runs from 1 to 8 August, will be celebrated countrywide under the theme "Light and light-based technologies", in line with the United Nations declaration that 2015 would be the International Year of Light.

The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, will launch National Science Week at North-West University's Mafikeng Campus on 1 August, accompanied by the North West MEC for Education, Ms Maphefo Matsemela, and the NWU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dan Kgwadi.

Media are invited as follows:

Time:         11:00 – 14:00
Venue:      Great Hall, Mafikeng Campus, North-West University
Date:          Saturday, 1 August 2015


For media attendance and interviews contact David Mandaha at 012 843 6806, 072 126 8910 or david.mandaha@dst.gov.za.

For media enquiries, contact Lunga Ngqengelele at 082 566 0446.

Issued by the Government Communications on behalf of
Department of Science and Technology

27 July 2015