University of Pretoria brings VR STEM outreach to TransOranje School for the Deaf

The University of Pretoria’s Sci-Enza Science Centre has launched a virtual reality (VR) STEM outreach programme for learners at the TransOranje School for the Deaf. The initiative uses immersive technology to bridge educational gaps for students who often face barriers with traditional, textbook-based science instruction.

During the sessions, students utilized VR headsets to explore a variety of scientific concepts, including wind turbines, hydroelectricity, and solar energy. The experience also extended to biological exploration through a virtual underwater environment featuring sharks. This programme is funded by the Albert Wessels Trust via the University of Pretoria's Department of Institutional Advancement (DIA).

Bridging the Visual Gap

TransOranje School for the Deaf provides specialized education for profoundly Deaf learners ranging from age 3 to Grade 12. Because these students rely heavily on visual communication and processing, standard STEM curricula can be difficult to navigate. By replacing static text with interactive 3D environments, Sci-Enza provides a medium that aligns with the learners' natural strengths.

Lehlohonolo Mmanape, Departmental Head for Intermediate Phase at TransOranje, noted that the students learn better through visual experience and that being physically present in a virtual space significantly aids the teaching process. For the students, the impact was immediate; Thabo Magkabo, a learner at the school, described the experience as being like a game that revealed how energy works, expressing gratitude that Deaf students were given the opportunity to participate.

Expanding Inclusive Education

This shift toward immersive technology is seen as a critical step in inclusive education. By moving STEM concepts out of textbooks and into interactive spaces, the programme allows learners to visualize complex processes—such as energy conversion—that are otherwise difficult to demonstrate in a traditional classroom. Puleng Tsie, Manager of Sci-Enza, warned that if science remains confined to textbooks, the country risks missing out on entire generations of innovators and problem-solvers.

Future Outreach

The initiative is designed to scale across the region. Sci-Enza is currently collaborating with Natural Sciences and Technology District Coordinators from the Department of Basic Education’s Tshwane South District to expand its reach to other schools in Pretoria.

Several other institutions have already been identified for the programme, including Curro Academy Mamelodi, LS Bakenkop, Andrew Anthony, and Wespark Primary School. Other participating sites will include Burgher Right, Paratus, Sunnyside, Centurion, Matseke, and Emasangweni primary schools, as the university continues to deploy VR tools to marginalized educational backgrounds.