In a world where science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education is crucial to the success of individuals and nations, there are still significant challenges to providing quality education in these fields, particularly in underprivileged areas. One individual, Mbangiso Mabaso, has taken it upon himself to address this challenge through the use of augmented and virtual reality in creating a virtual science lab called Sisanda.
Mbangiso Mabaso, also known as Baso, is an electric engineer and self-taught game developer from Botshabelo, South Africa. He founded Sisanda Tech, a social enterprise that develops software and mobile games to make STEM education more fun and accessible. He is passionate about product design, the emotions that products evoke in users and philosophy. Mabaso has received numerous accolades for his work, including being named as the MTN Business App of the Year Awards Most Innovative Solution for 2019, DBSA Top 10 Innovator, and Top 5 by African Youth Energy Innovator.
Sisanda Tech is a social enterprise that aims to make STEM education more fun and accessible. Their virtual science lab mobile app, Sisanda App Universe, allows learners to experiment with science using augmented reality. The Si Realities product uses augmented reality to project images from paper into 3D images that can be manipulated on students’ smartphones. Sisanda Tech has partnerships with local schools and plans to expand across Africa. Their technology can help municipalities with educational awareness, such as explaining a certain technology to citizens, and for staff training.
Sisanda Tech has achieved significant recognition for its work, including winning the MTN Business App of the Year Awards for Most Innovative Solution for 2019. The company has partnerships with local schools and plans to expand across Africa. The social enterprise has received funding through various sources, including the SAB Kickstart Ignite competition, the Red Bull Basement Residency, and Further Impact (formerly known as Red Bull Amaphiko).
The future of Sisanda Tech is bright as it continues to expand and create innovative products that make STEM education more accessible to learners. The use of augmented and virtual reality in education is an emerging trend, and Sisanda Tech is at the forefront of this movement. Sisanda Tech aims to continue expanding its reach across Africa and partnering with more local schools to provide quality STEM education to learners who may not have access to functional science labs.
Sisanda App Universe can be found on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Additionally, people can learn more about Sisanda Tech and its products on its website and social media pages.
Sisanda Tech and Mbangiso Mabaso are making significant strides in making STEM education more fun and accessible. The use of augmented and virtual reality is revolutionizing the way learners interact with STEM subjects. As Sisanda Tech continues to expand, more learners will have access to quality STEM education, which will benefit both individuals and nations.
