By Noko Mashilo
Christopher Moumakwe (38) has discovered a simple truth, learning is fun-to-mental that continues to shape the journey of many learners. Driven by this belief, Moumakwe founded Afro Connect better known as Africa Connect Online, Edbook, and the STEAM Festival. Through this organization, Moumakwe is creating platforms that celebrate education not as a rigid duty, but as an adventure of discovery and expression.
Moumakwe’s work blends the precision of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) with the creativity of the Arts. This proves that imagination is just as important as logic in building the future. Whether it is children sketching mathematical patterns, telling stories about scientific wonders, or performing dances inspired by technology, Moumakwe is showing that when learning is joyful, it becomes limitless.
He told Vula Vala that what inspired him to expand STEM into Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) by incorporating music, dance, and art is to promote the stem subject looking at the decline of learners taking stem subjects in schools. “Arts encourage creativity, allowing children to express their understanding of STEM concepts through various mediums like drawing, painting, music, dance, or drama.
Arts can make abstract STEM ideas more tangible. For example, visualizing mathematical patterns through art or representing scientific processes through storytelling. Incorporating arts can make learning more enjoyable and increase student engagement with STEM topics. Arts projects often involve teamwork and communication, mirroring real-world applications of STEM,” he said.
Moumakwe said lessons blend science or technology with music or dance. “It combines science concepts of complex topics and sound waves with music creation (beat making), engaging students in understanding how sound is produced, manipulated, experienced through music and also change topics into the script format,” he added.
He further said his programme is designed for primary school learners aged 6-12). “This engages younger learners in creative expression and foundational STEAM concepts. It also covers secondary school learners aged 13-18. It offers challenges and opportunities fitting older students’ skills and interests in STEAM and arts categories,” said Moumakwe.
Moumakwe is working hand in gloves with community partners like Tshebedisano Burial Society and Funerals led by philanthropist Pamela Motlhabi, better known for her generosity. “We chose them because of their insights into community needs, preferences and they understand locals. They have already supported us with branded gear for our children. Their presence had broad more unity, sense of belonging, branded merchandise makes children feel part of a special group,” Moumakwe shared.
Pamela Motlhabi, founder of Tshebedisano Burial Society and Funerals said STEAM is very important to her because she believes in investing in the development of young people. “I have seen that many of them carry gifts and talents they do not even recognize as valuable assets for their future. When we nurture these abilities and encourage education, we open doors that can change lives. I want young people to understand that they must believe in themselves, even when life does not follow a straight path. Challenges will come, but those challenges are stepping stones to growth and success,” said Motlhabi.
Moumakwe said his long-term goals for the STEAM programme in South Africa and beyond is reigniting learners’ interest in STEM subjects by presenting them through a creative, culturally relevant lens. “Foster a culture of creativity, innovation, and sustainability by integrating the arts with STEM education in Africa.
Provide learners with a platform to showcase their talents and gain recognition for their work while promoting cultural exchange. Encourage sustainable practices through environmentally and culturally themed projects. Strengthen the capacities of local cultural professionals and community organisations,” said Moumakwe who is planning to take this programme nationally and globally.
Businesses, parents, or educators can get involved in supporting or adopting STEAM by affiliating under the STEAM Festival federation by visiting www.steamfestival.co.za, or attending the events and also donating.
