JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, October 31, 2006 – Science was brought to ‘life’ for hundreds of South African school children when they came face to face with ASIMO, the world’s most advanced humanoid robot.  ASIMO met the students during a series of specially arranged shows, which were organized by Honda South Africa to help raise interest in science and engineering amongst the regions’ school children. The shows were held at Honda’s stand at Auto Africa in Johannesburg, the country’s premier motor show.

During each performance ASIMO highlighted the importance of engineering and science to society and offered encouragement to the students to play an active role in shaping their own future.

The event was organized in conjunction with Honda Finance, The Star, South Africa’s daily newspaper, and the DINALEDI Focus Schools Project, which aims to increase the number and performance of children in South Africa studying mathematics and physical science, especially girls and the disadvantaged.

In total 1,200 school children and their teachers attended the shows and each received a maths and science themed ‘Study Buddy’ teaching aid.

Hiroaki Shibata, Managing Director, Honda South Africa said: “These educational shows are a great opportunity to show to young people in South Africa the exciting challenges they could face through a career in science and engineering. ASIMO demonstrates the diverse and revolutionary projects children could become involved in and I hope it inspires more young children to realize that science and engineering can be fun.”