Astro4dev at Science Forum 2024
SCIENCE FORUM SIDE EVENT
Event Title: Astronomy for Sustainable Development: Charting the Future of Africa.
Date: 04 December 2024
Time: 08:20-10:15
Venue: CSIR ICC – Jade Room
The African Astronomical Society and the Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) will be co-hosting a side event at Science Forum South Africa titled: Astronomy for Sustainable Development: Charting the Future of Africa.
Following the International Astronomical Union’s General Assembly in Cape Town in August 2024, the Science Forum South Africa offers an ideal platform to engage key stakeholders on the future of Astronomy in Africa. This session will focus on the role of astronomy in advancing sustainable development across Africa, highlighting Africa’s advancements in astronomy and underscoring its importance in supporting the continent’s development goals.
Africa boasts world-class facilities like the MeerKAT telescope, set to become part of the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO), and the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT). Additionally, South Africa collaborates with continental and global observatories to build an integrated African observation network. Various Human Capacity Development (HCD) programmes, which have already funded thousands of students, prepare graduates across Africa to lead in astronomy research.
Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals such as (SDGs) 4, 8, and 9, this event aims to demonstrate astronomy’s potential for socioeconomic growth by fostering partnerships with industry, facilities, and government. The agenda includes case studies, collaborative opportunities, and discussions led by representatives from the DSTI, NRF, AfAS, with anticipated outcomes of enhanced awareness, new partnerships, and expanded networking in astronomy across Africa.
SPEAKERS:
Mr Takalani Nemaungani – DSTI
Mr Kevin Govender – IAU-OAD
Ms Duduzile Kubheka – AfAS/BRICS
Dr Charles Takalana – IAU-OAD
Mr Thijs Geurts – SKAO
Ms Nomfundo Makhubo – SARAO
Mr Sivuyile Manxoyi – SAAO
Ms Audrey Dikgale – DSTI
Mr Lionel Khoza – Amazon
Watch live stream: https://www.youtube.com/live/K3kC9YXbmjY
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