NSTF Newsruling on the legalisation of cannabis for private use. Read more. NSTF News...
1
Email: [email protected] | Tel: +27 12 841 3987 Message from NSTF Executive Director Ms Jansie Niehaus, NSTF Executive Director, responds to the Constitutional Court ruling on the legalisation of cannabis for private use. Read more. NSTF News ‘Water-Energy-Food Nexus – towards efficient national planning’ Discussion Forum The ‘Water-Energy-Food Nexus – towards efficient national planning’ Discussion Forum (#WaterEnergyFood) will be held from 23-24 October 2018, Broederstroom, Hartbeespoort, North West. The national science councils sector of the NSTF is hosting this event. You can register online now. For further information, contact [email protected]. DST White Paper open for comment With Cabinet approval, the Minister of Science and Technology, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, has released the draft White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation for public comment. Stakeholders, NSTF members, and the public can submit comments to the Department of Science and Technology by 19 October 2018. Input can be: Emailed to [email protected] Posted to White Paper, Department of Science and Technology, Private Bag X894, Pretoria, 0001 Hand delivered to the Department at Building 53, Scientia (CSIR) Campus, Meiring Naudé Road, Brummeria, Pretoria Enquiries can be directed to either: Ms Urszula Rust at [email protected] Ms Nthabiseng Msomi at 012 843 6720 and [email protected] See also ‘Featured SET policy’ below. Call for nominations – 2018/2019 NSTF-South32 Awards A reminder to look out for the 2018/2019 NSTF-South32 Awards Call for Nominations. The Call for Nominations will happen in November 2018 and will celebrate the 21 st event. See the clip of the highlights of the 20 th Gala Dinner held on 28 June 2018. Share ‘n Dare outreach The NSTF Share ‘n Dare programme is sponsored by the Carl & Emily Fuchs Foundation . It is linked to the NSTF-South32 Awards. It provides a platform for NSTF Award winners to act as role models and ambassadors for science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation. The winners share knowledge with youth and communities, inspiring young people to pursue studies and careers in SET and innovation. Read more about the following Share ‘n Dare talks: From 30-31 July 2018, CEO of The Platinum Incubator (TPI) Ms Sibongile Purity Shongwe spoke to learners at the Penreach Shalamuka Science Centre, Nelspruit, Mpumalanga From 1-2 August 2018, Prof Mmantsae Diale and Dr Musa Manzi spoke to learners at the Mondi Science Centre, Mkhondo (Piet Retief), Mpumalanga On 1 August 2018, Dr Xolani Humphrey Mkhwanazi gave a talk at the Necsa Visitor Centre, Hartebeespoort, North West On 1 August 2018, Prof Prof Keolebogile Motaung spoke to learners at the Anglo-American Science Centre, Witbank, Mpumalanga On 4 August 2018, Prof Malik Maaza spoke to learners and the public at the iThemba LABS, Cape Town, Western Cape On 7 August 2018, Ms Selloane Nyaredi from The Platinum Institute (TPI) spoke to learners and the public at the JNF Walter Sisulu Environmental Centre, Mamelodi, Gauteng See the upcoming events list for the NSTF Share ‘n Dare programme New NSTF members The NSTF welcomes its new members: COUNT Educational Institute (Civil Society Sector) Keypoint Project Solutions ( Business Sector, SMME) Kwetso Foundation (Civil Society Sector) The Conversation Africa (Civil Society Sector) Survey on R&D tax incentive The National Treasury, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology and the World Bank, is evaluating the impact of South Africa's research and development (R&D) tax incentive. This evidence will inform policy decisions about the incentive. An online survey is running from 6 September to 4 October 2018. All companies that have applied for the incentive up to December 2017, whether granted approval or not, are requested to participate in the survey. Read more for further information. Getting to know our award winners: Prof Etheresia Pretorius Prof Etheresia Pretorius is Head: Department of Physiological Sciences and Director: Applied Morphology Research Centre at Stellenbosch University. Her overarching contribution is to add novel knowledge regarding the origin and pathophysiology of inflammation and abnormal clotting. This includes the conclusion that all non-communicable diseases have a possible bacterial origin. Read more about her work. She is the NSTF-South32 Awards winner of the 2017/2018 TW Kambule-NSTF Award: Researcher . Getting to know our award winners: Wendy Collinson Wendy Collinson is project executant: Wildlife and Roads Project, Endangered Wildlife Trust. The project works to reduce the negative impacts of transport infrastructure on wildlife, ultimately improving driver safety. Read more about her work. She is the NSTF-South32 Awards female winner of the 2017/2018 TW Kambule-NSTF Awards: Emerging Researcher . Getting to know our award winners: Dr Musa Manzi Dr Musa Manzi is senior researcher and director: Seismic Research Centre, School of Geosciences, University the of Witwatersrand. He develops and applies mathematical and geophysical techniques to gain a deeper understanding of earth processes. This includes innovative 3D seismic technologies for deep mineral exploration. Read more about his work. He is the NSTF-South32 Awards male winner of the 2017/2018 TW Kambule-NSTF Awards: Emerging Researcher . NSTF condolences on the death of Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa The NSTF and the science, engineering and technology (SET) community are greatly saddened by the passing of Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa. ‘Her passing has left us poorer’ — Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa dies (M&G Bursary Directory Find the latest bursaries in science, engineering and technology (SET) in the NSTF Bursary Directory. This service is sponsored by the Fuchs Foundation . Recently-added bursaries include: SKA Engineering Technology Bursaries SAWISE Scholarship Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education Bursaries Cape Gate Isaac Joffe Fellowship Bursary Scheme SAIEE Bursary Scheme Visit the NSTF Bursary Directory to find regularly updated information on available bursaries , t he organisations that usually provide bursaries, various SET-related career paths , and inspiring stories of people in SET. Mzansi Bright Sparks Siphephelo Brian Tshabalala is from the Free State. He is studying BEng tech in Civil engineering at the University of Johannesburg. He is one of the first-year students who were recognised in the 2017/2018 NSTF Brilliants Programme for top marks in mathematics and physical science in the National Senior Certificate Examinations. “If I was the president, I would develop great math and science teachers for all schools by making the selection process higher to produce more quality teachers.'' Featured SET policy: Draft White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation The Draft White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation (DST) is currently open for public comment. For background and an overview, please go to New draft White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation (DST). Deadline: Friday 19 October 2018 on e-mail to [email protected] SET-related policies currently open for public comment Policies open for comment allow the science, engineering and technology (SET) community to keep track of the changing regulation environment. Climate Smart Agriculture Strategic Framework (Comment by: Tuesday October 2, 2018) National Forests Act: List of particular trees and group of trees to be declared Champion Trees (Comment by: Tuesday October 2, 2018) Medicines and Related Substances Act: Regulations: Transparent pricing system: Amendment: Draft (Comment by: Tuesday October 9, 2018) Nursing Act: Regulations: Approval of and minimum requirements for education and training of learner/student leading to registration in category midwife (Comment by: Wednesday October 10, 2018) National Education Policy Act: Curriculum and assessment policy statement (CAPS) for twenty-six technical occupational subjects to be listed in National Curriculum Statement Grades R-12 Grades R-12: Draft (Comment by: Friday October 12, 2018) 6th National Greenhouse Gas Inventory for South Africa (Comment by: Saturday October 13, 2018) Biennial Update Report 3 to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (Comment by: Saturday October 13, 2018) National Greenhouse Gas Inventory report: Draft (Comment by: Sunday October 14, 2018) Nursing Act: Regulations: Register for learner/student nurses and learner/student midwives (Comment by: Friday October 19, 2018) National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act: Alien and invasive species list and list of critically endangered, vulnerable and protected species: Amendment (Comment by: Sunday October 21, 2018) National Environmental Management: Waste Act: Industry Waste Tyre Management Plans (Comment by: Sunday October 21, 2018) Electricity Regulations Act: Integrated Resource Plan 2018 (Comment by: Friday October 26, 2018) Pharmacy Act: Rules: Good pharmacy practice: Amendments (Comment by: Wednesday October 31, 2018) SET-related policy news Draft White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation SA's sci-tech white paper out for comment Comment by: Friday 19 October 2018 (ITWeb) South Africa pushes science to improve daily life (Nat ure) Unions will have say on rise of the machines, minister vows (Fin24) Indigenous knowledge Indigenous Knowledge Bill set to be enacted (SABC) Medicine and health Calls for action at historic TB meeting (Healt h24) Up to 8 Million Deaths Occur in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Yearly Due to Poor- Quality Health Care, Says New Report; Major Quality Chasm Must Be Fixed in Order to Reap Benefits of Universal Health Coverage (National Academies) Wide inequalities in people’s well-being cast a shadow on sustained human development progress – Human Development Index (UNIC) Water and sanitation Full steam ahead for Water & Sanitation Master Plan (infrastucturene.ws) Climate change and environment Environmental Affairs highlights progress on implementation of Integrated Strategic Management of Rhinoceros (gov.za) Nations round on US, allies as UN climate talks wrap up (M&G) Energy Affordability of energy must be prioritised – Radebe (Polity) Coal-transition support should aid workers and communities, not Eskom – report (Polity) Reason lights up new energy plan (M&G) Life after Coal and Greenpeace Africa slam Inclusion of New Coal in Electricity Plan (Africa Newsroom) Exclusion of new nuclear power capacity not deliberate – Radebe (Polity) 4th Industrial revolution Ramaphosa wants smart, connected cities, says sci-tech minister (Polity) SA govt looks to develop data policy, drive 5G (ITWeb) Youth, women, SMMEs at centre of Fourth Industrial Revolution – Ramaphosa (Polity) Economy Ramaphosa’s plan to revive the economy: the details –“State funds will be redirected toward agriculture, which the government sees as having massive potential to great jobs, as well as to stimulating economic activity in townships and rural areas.” (TechCentral) Science relations SA and China celebrate milestone with new mineral resources joint research centre (DST) http://www.tank.co.za/ 6th International Conference on Ethics Education : Stellenbosch, South Africa, 3-5 October 2018 36th Annual International No-Dig Conference and Exhibition : Cape Town, 8- 9 October 2018 EduTECH Africa 2018 and EduBUILD Africa 2018 : Johannesburg, 9-10 October 2018. This includes a LEGO® Education Robotics Interactive Zone . WasteCon 2018 : Johannesburg, 15-19 October 2018 National Health Summit – stakeholders to submit proposals for inclusion: Gauteng, 19-20 October 2018 SA Energy Storage 2018 : Johannesburg, 22-23 October 2018 29 th SAIIE annual conference – Steering the 4 th Industrial Revolution : Stellenbosch, 24-26 October 2018 AAPG International Conference and Exhibition : Cape Town, 4-7 November 2018 International Data Week 2018 (IDW 2018) and SciDataCon 2018 : Gaborone, Botswana, 5-8 November 2018 Manufacturing Indaba Western Cape : Cape Town, 7 November 2018 SciCOM 100* Conference 2018 : focused on research in the field of science communication, Stellenbosch University, 6-7 November 2018 13th Southern African Energy Efficiency Confederation Conference (2018SAEEC) : 13-14 November 2018 Drug Safety Africa 2018 Conference : Potchefstroom, 20-22 November 2018 Second International Summit on Human Genome Editing : Hong Kong, 27-29 November 2018 Disruptive technologies and public policy in the age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution : Pretoria, 10-12 December 2018 Science Forum South Africa : South Africa, 12-14 December 2018 The Water Show Africa 2019 : Johannesburg, 12-13 March 2019 3rd international conference for women in science without borders movement/network (WISWB) : Egypt, 12-14 March 2019 Power & Electricity World Africa 2019 : 26-27 March 2019 The Solar Show Africa 2019 : 26-27 March 2019 Energy Efficiency World : 26-27 March 2019 Manufacturing Indaba : Johannesburg, 25-26 June 2019 8th International Conference on Engineering Mathematics and Physics : Ningbo, China, 28-30 June 2019 Members of NSTF in the pro SET (Professional Societies) sector are featured in every newsletter. This month we look at IEEE and SAIIE. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineer (IEEE) is the world’s largest technical professional organisation dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. The organisation and its members inspire a global community to innovate for a better tomorrow through its more than 423,000 members in over 160 countries. It also does this through its highly cited publications, conferences, technology standards, and professional and educational activities. The website for IEEE South Africa provides news, information on events, societies, and affinity groups. There is also a resources section. The Southern African Institute for Industrial Engineering ( SAIIE) envisions a vibrant, learned society, representing and promoting all Industrial Engineers in Southern Africa. Modern industrial engineering is concerned with the integration of resources and processes into cohesive strategies, structures and systems for the effective and efficient production of quality goods and services. On the website, you will find newsletters , information on events and awards, links to their journal and magazine, among other items. SET education Smartphones advance literacy in Africa (ITWeb) Learners tackle environmental health for a better future (Sangonet) #YouthReport2018: Generation jobless and the high inequality economy (BizCommunity) Western Cape to open nine science centres (SABC) New mobile science, maths, tech laboratory using robotics to inspire children (Engineering News) Universities and higher education Does South African research output promote innovation? (SAJS) Discovery relies on strong support staff (Nat ure) Publication incentives based on journal rankings disadvantage local publications (SAJS) NWU Mahikeng becomes first historically disadvantaged campus to host an astronomy observatory (DST) CUT Solar Project gets an upgrade (BizCommunity) Study on Building a Cadre of Emerging Scholars for Higher Education in South Africa – Universities South Africa carried out this study on behalf of the Department of Science and Technology and the Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology (DST) South Africa’s university students face a crisis: nearly a third go hungry (The Conversation) Corporate sponsorship diverts research and distorts public policy, report finds ( The Guardian) Research-intensive universities in Africa? A model of how to build them (The Conversation) Industry development and innovation Waste-to-energy saves money and boosts production (ee publishers) New biorefinery research consortium to create value chains from waste biomass (DST) CNN-flighted advert projecting huge growth for platinum-using fuel cells (Polity) Experimental vaccine shows promise in preventing TB (News24) Total to roll out solar-powered service stations in Kruger National Park (Engineering News) New plant set to turn SA’s coffee waste into biofuels (infrastucturene.ws) Medicine and health Did Big Tobacco buy Twitter? (M&G) CSIR unveils new tech for diabetes management (ITWeb) Getting the balance right in detecting diabetes (BizCommunity) Cancer cases have doubled in the last 8 years – these are the most common types, according to Discovery (BusinessTech) African mid-level health workers need better training (BizCommunity) National Cochrane Library licence renewed – The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) recently renewed the national Cochrane Library licence that will make evidence-based scientific reviews accessible to healthcare decision makers in South Africa (SAMRC) Data deficit mars African control of lifestyle diseases (SciDevNet) New cardiac simulation lab to revolutionise medical training (BizCommunity) #Dagga: ConCourt says yes to getting high in private (M&G) Legalised pot spots: A rarity around the world (M&G) Listeriosis outbreak officially over – Motsoaledi (Polity) The Agricultural Research Council conducts a research program to cultivate hemp for medicinal purpose (ARC) Artificial intelligence to the rescue in medtech (ITWeb) New Platform Launched to Drive Drug Discovery and Scientific Research (ehealth news) Micro-TESE surgery results in SA's first successful pregnancy (BizCommunity) Climate change, water and the spread of diseases: connecting the dots differently (The Conversation) BHF study: human resources distribution is good and bad news (BizCommunity) Watch-like device helps alert hearing impaired (SABC) Palaeontology and archaeology World’s oldest drawing is Stone Age crayon doodle (Nat ure) plus Drawing on a piece of silcrete found in Blombos Cave predates previous human- made drawings by at least 30,000 years New technology tells us which animal bones were used to make ancient tools (The Conversation) Massive dinosaur ‘bone bed’ found in E Cape (SABC) What would it mean to decolonise palaeontology? Here are some ideas (The Conversation) Astronomy and space science How tech will support life on Mars (ITWeb) Taking earth observation to the continent (ee publishers) The General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union to be hosted on African soil for the first time in 2024 (SKA Africa) Space tech needed to monitor SDGs (SciDevNet) Environment, climate change and energy Water 20-million in SA denied clean water (M&G) Scientists step up demand for government to protect oceans (Times Live) Many responsible for Vaal River pollution (SABC) Explainer: what there is to know about South Africa’s aquifers (The Conversation) What’s the story with SA’s water and sanitation? (infrastucturene.ws) City Taking Steps to Minimize the Impact of the Shot Hole Borer (Joburg.org.za) Climate change and environment Biodiversity standard boosts NGOs (Business Day) Invasive pines fueled 2017 fires in South Africa (phys.org) Cutting out meat and dairy slashes your carbon footprint (M&G) The blueprint for happiness (M&G) Working out what’s fair in conservation in sub-Saharan Africa (The Conversation) Tackle invasive species to restore degraded landscapes (SciDevNet) S.Africa rhino poaching drops by a quarter (phys.org) Does South Africa have a microplastics problem? Our research says yes (The Conversation) Africa needs to cool down – urgently (M&G) The ecology of drought – a workshop report (SAJS) ‘Plant blindness’ is a real thing: why it’s a real problem too (The Conversation) Understanding implications of 2°C-compatible coal phase-out plan for SA (ee publishers) Why nuclear energy should be part of Africa’s energy mix (The Conversation) Eskom delays finalisation of new strategy to mid-November (Polity) Hydropower is Africa’s big gamble (M&G) Study reaffirms renewables now cheaper than coal (ITWeb) How solar kits and battery lamps are replacing kerosene across Africa (The Conversation) SA perspective in highly acclaimed World Nuclear Industry Status Report ( ee publishers) Blockchain, AI, 3D printing reduce renewables prices (ITWeb) Microgrids for productive use of energy in Africa (ee publishers) Eskom has coal shortages at ten power plants – spokesperson (Polity) Sasol Solar Challenge heats up (ITWeb) Explainer: why lithium ion batteries could be a game changer in Africa (The Conversation) Agriculture Growth and jobs in South Africa's agricultural sector (BizCommunity) Food insecurity rising in Africa (M&G) Winetech seeks entrepreneurs to disrupt wine industry (ITWeb) Could the future of food in the world depend on what Africa does with agriculture? (Africa Newsroom) Food and agricultural technology can enable the emerging tourism sector across Africa (BizCommunity) Oriental fruit fly detected in farms around Upington (SABC) AfDB seeks partnerships to lift 1bn people out of hunger (Engineering News) 'Fake food' in South Africa: myths, misinformation and not enough data (BizCommunity) ‘Baobab trees are dying out’ (SABC) Crop-eating pest could hit Africa food supplies: experts (phys.org) Why developing countries should boost the ways of small-scale farming (The Conversation) Technology and the 4 th Industrial Revolution The rush for data risks growing the North-South divide (SciDevNet) Machines to handle half of work tasks by 2025 (TechCentral) #SA4IR to help SA master fourth industrial revolution (ITWeb) Smart Trucks: Cost reduction all-round while maintaining competitive advant age (CSIR) Battlefield Medics and Student Doctors Could Use Augmented Reality to Get Help From Faraway Surgeons (Popular Mechanics) The airport of the future is here – and it doesn’t need humans (TechCentral) Many populations fear big job loss from automation: survey (phys.org) Gartner lists top 10 tech trends for 2019 (ITWeb) Opportunities Japan Science and Technology Agency-Japan International Cooperation Agency-Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development – a Call for Proposals 2018 (NRF) African Union Kwame Nkrumah Awards for Scientific Excellence (ASSAf) Promoting efficiencies for ‘Green Tourism’ (infrastucturene.ws) Obituary: Prof. Philip Lloyd (ee publishers) South Africa’s top health researchers honoured for contributions to public health (SAMRC) CSIR researcher cracks unconventional method to enhance the brightness of solid-state lasers – Dr Darryl Naidoo (CSIR) Professor Lucille Blumberg receives the SAMRC Special Award (NICD) Professor Penny Moore received a Silver Medal from SAMRC (NICD) SA learner takes silver at mental calculation world champs (BizCommunity) Limpopo aspiring scientists to participate in US science program (SABC) Three UCT lecturers participate in international Solar Decathlon competition (Engineering News) Please forward this e-mail to your colleagues, business contacts and all interested persons! Send us your news The NSTF invites all our members, as well as all SET and innovation role players, to send us information on meetings, conferences and activities of interest to the broader S&T community. Please send us your news by the 20th of the month, for distribution at the beginning of the following month, to [email protected] Feedback If you have any comments or suggestions on how we can improve this newsletter, please e-mail the NSTF Secretariat at [email protected] About the NSTF The National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) , established in 1995, is a broadly- representative stakeholder body for all SET and innovation organisations in South Africa, which seeks to influence policy formulation and delivery. The NSTF-South32 Awards are unique in SA, recognising the outstanding contributions of individuals and groups to SET and innovation. The science bursaries page provides information on bursaries and bursary providers for science, engineering and related studies. Disclaimer The NSTF has taken all practical measures to ensure that the material contained in this newsletter is correct. The NSTF reserves the right to make changes as it deems necessary. Privacy Registration details submitted to the NSTF will be treated confidentially and will only be used by NSTF to communicate with its members and subscribers. For more information www.nstf.org.za E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 27 12 8413987 Fax: 27 12 841 3025 Non Profit Company Registration Number: 2007/029165/08 NPO Registration Number: 92042 Donor tax exemption for all donations to the NSTF
Transcript of NSTF Newsruling on the legalisation of cannabis for private use. Read more. NSTF News...
Email:[email protected]|Tel:+27128413987
MessagefromNSTFExecutiveDirectorMsJansieNiehaus,NSTFExecutiveDirector,respondstotheConstitut ionalCourtrulingonthelegalisat ionofcannabisforprivateuse.Readmore.
NSTFNews‘Water-Energy-FoodNexus–towardsefficientnationalplanning’DiscussionForumThe‘Water-Energy-FoodNexus–towardsefficientnationalplanning’DiscussionForum(#WaterEnergyFood)willbeheldfrom23-24October2018,Broederstroom,Hartbeespoort,NorthWest.ThenationalsciencecouncilssectoroftheNSTFishost ingthisevent.Youcanregisteronlinenow.Forfurtherinformation,[email protected].
DSTWhitePaperopenforcommentWithCabinetapproval,theMinisterofScienceandTechnology,MsMmamolokoKubayi-Ngubane,hasreleasedthedraft WhitePaperonScience,TechnologyandInnovationforpubliccomment.Stakeholders,NSTFmembers,andthepubliccansubmitcommentstotheDepartmentofScienceandTechnologyby19October2018.Inputcanbe:
[email protected],DepartmentofScienceandTechnology,PrivateBagX894,Pretoria,0001HanddeliveredtotheDepartmentatBuilding53,Scientia(CSIR)Campus,MeiringNaudéRoad,Brummeria,Pretoria
Enquiriescanbedirectedtoeither:
MsUrszulaRustaturszula.rust@dst.gov.zaMsNthabisengMsomiat0128436720andnthabiseng.msomi@dst.gov.za
Seealso‘FeaturedSETpolicy’below.
Callfornominations–2018/2019NSTF-South32AwardsAremindertolookoutforthe2018/2019NSTF-South32AwardsCallforNominations.
TheCallforNominationswillhappeninNovember2018andwillcelebratethe21stevent.Seetheclipofthehighlightsofthe20thGalaDinnerheldon28June2018.
Share‘nDareoutreachTheNSTFShare‘nDareprogrammeissponsoredbytheCarl&EmilyFuchsFoundation.It islinkedtotheNSTF-South32Awards.It providesaplatformforNSTFAwardwinnerstoactasrolemodelsandambassadorsforscience,engineering,technology(SET)andinnovation.Thewinnersshareknowledgewithyouthandcommunit ies,inspiringyoungpeopletopursuestudiesandcareersinSETandinnovation.ReadmoreaboutthefollowingShare‘nDaretalks:
From30-31July2018,CEOofThePlat inumIncubator(TPI)MsSibongilePurityShongwespoketolearnersatthePenreachShalamukaScienceCentre,Nelspruit ,MpumalangaFrom1-2August2018,ProfMmantsaeDialeandDrMusaManzispoketolearnersattheMondiScienceCentre,Mkhondo(PietRetief),MpumalangaOn1August2018,DrXolaniHumphreyMkhwanazigaveatalkattheNecsaVisitorCentre,Hartebeespoort,NorthWestOn1August2018,ProfProfKeolebogileMotaungspoketolearnersattheAnglo-AmericanScienceCentre,Witbank,MpumalangaOn4August2018,ProfMalikMaazaspoketolearnersandthepublicattheiThembaLABS,CapeTown,WesternCapeOn7August2018,MsSelloaneNyaredifromThePlat inumInst itute(TPI)spoketolearnersandthepublicattheJNFWalterSisuluEnvironmentalCentre,Mamelodi,Gauteng
Seetheupcomingeventslist fortheNSTFShare‘nDareprogramme
NewNSTFmembersTheNSTFwelcomesitsnewmembers:
COUNTEducationalInst itute(CivilSocietySector)KeypointProjectSolut ions(BusinessSector,SMME)KwetsoFoundation(CivilSocietySector)TheConversationAfrica(CivilSocietySector)
SurveyonR&DtaxincentiveTheNationalTreasury,incollaborationwiththeDepartmentofScienceandTechnologyandtheWorldBank,isevaluatingtheimpactofSouthAfrica'sresearchanddevelopment(R&D)taxincentive.Thisevidencewillinformpolicydecisionsabouttheincentive.Anonlinesurveyisrunningfrom6Septemberto4October2018.AllcompaniesthathaveappliedfortheincentiveuptoDecember2017,whethergrantedapprovalornot,arerequestedtopart icipateinthesurvey.Readmoreforfurtherinformation.
Gettingtoknowourawardwinners:ProfEtheresiaPretoriusProfEtheresiaPretoriusisHead:DepartmentofPhysiologicalSciencesandDirector:AppliedMorphologyResearchCentreatStellenboschUniversity.Heroverarchingcontributionistoaddnovelknowledgeregardingtheoriginandpathophysiologyofinflammationandabnormalclott ing.Thisincludestheconclusionthatallnon-communicablediseaseshaveapossiblebacterialorigin.
Readmoreaboutherwork.SheistheNSTF-South32Awardswinnerofthe2017/2018TWKambule-NSTFAward:Researcher.
Gettingtoknowourawardwinners:WendyCollinsonWendyCollinsonisprojectexecutant:WildlifeandRoadsProject,EndangeredWildlifeTrust.Theprojectworkstoreducethenegativeimpactsoftransportinfrastructureonwildlife,ult imatelyimprovingdriversafety.
Readmoreaboutherwork.SheistheNSTF-South32Awardsfemalewinnerofthe2017/2018TWKambule-NSTFAwards:EmergingResearcher.
Gettingtoknowourawardwinners:DrMusaManziDrMusaManziisseniorresearcheranddirector:SeismicResearchCentre,SchoolofGeosciences,UniversitytheofWitwatersrand.Hedevelopsandappliesmathematicalandgeophysicaltechniquestogainadeeperunderstandingofearthprocesses.Thisincludesinnovative3Dseismictechnologiesfordeepmineralexplorat ion.
Readmoreabouthiswork.HeistheNSTF-South32Awardsmalewinnerofthe2017/2018TWKambule-NSTFAwards:EmergingResearcher.
NSTFcondolencesonthedeathofEnvironmentalAffairsMinisterEdnaMolewaTheNSTFandthescience,engineeringandtechnology(SET)communityaregreatlysaddenedbythepassingofEnvironmentalAffairsMinisterEdnaMolewa.‘Herpassinghasleft uspoorer’—EnvironmentalAffairsMinisterEdnaMolewadies(M&G
BursaryDirectoryFindthelatestbursariesinscience,engineeringandtechnology(SET)intheNSTFBursaryDirectory.ThisserviceissponsoredbytheFuchsFoundation.Recently-addedbursariesinclude:
SKAEngineeringTechnologyBursariesSAWISEScholarshipFoundationforPharmaceuticalEducationBursariesCapeGateIsaacJoffeFellowshipBursarySchemeSAIEEBursaryScheme
Visit theNSTFBursaryDirectorytofindregularlyupdatedinformationonavailablebursaries,theorganisationsthatusuallyprovidebursaries,variousSET-relatedcareerpaths,andinspiringstoriesofpeopleinSET.
MzansiBrightSparksSiphepheloBrianTshabalalaisfromtheFreeState.HeisstudyingBEngtechinCivilengineeringattheUniversityofJohannesburg.Heisoneofthefirst-yearstudentswhowererecognisedinthe2017/2018NSTFBrilliantsProgrammefortopmarksinmathematicsandphysicalscienceintheNationalSeniorCert ificateExaminations.
“IfIwasthepresident,Iwoulddevelopgreatmathandscienceteachersforallschoolsbymakingtheselectionprocesshighertoproducemorequalityteachers.''
FeaturedSETpolicy:DraftWhitePaperonScience,TechnologyandInnovationTheDraft WhitePaperonScience,TechnologyandInnovation(DST)iscurrentlyopenforpubliccomment.Forbackgroundandanoverview,pleasegotoNewdraft WhitePaperonScience,TechnologyandInnovation(DST).Deadline:[email protected]
SET-relatedpoliciescurrentlyopenforpubliccommentPoliciesopenforcommentallowthescience,engineeringandtechnology(SET)communitytokeeptrackofthechangingregulat ionenvironment.
ClimateSmartAgricultureStrategicFramework(Commentby:TuesdayOctober2,2018)NationalForestsAct:List ofpart iculartreesandgroupoftreestobedeclaredChampionTrees(Commentby:TuesdayOctober2,2018)MedicinesandRelatedSubstancesAct:Regulat ions:Transparentpricingsystem:Amendment:Draft (Commentby:TuesdayOctober9,2018)NursingAct:Regulat ions:Approvalofandminimumrequirementsforeducationandtrainingoflearner/studentleadingtoregistrat ionincategorymidwife(Commentby:WednesdayOctober10,2018)NationalEducationPolicyAct:Curriculumandassessmentpolicystatement(CAPS)fortwenty-sixtechnicaloccupationalsubjectstobelistedinNationalCurriculumStatementGradesR-12GradesR-12:Draft (Commentby:FridayOctober12,2018)6thNationalGreenhouseGasInventoryforSouthAfrica(Commentby:SaturdayOctober13,2018)BiennialUpdateReport3toUnitedNationsFrameworkConventiononClimateChange(Commentby:SaturdayOctober13,2018)NationalGreenhouseGasInventoryreport:Draft (Commentby:SundayOctober14,2018)NursingAct:Regulat ions:Registerforlearner/studentnursesandlearner/studentmidwives(Commentby:FridayOctober19,2018)NationalEnvironmentalManagement:BiodiversityAct:Alienandinvasivespecieslist andlist ofcrit icallyendangered,vulnerableandprotectedspecies:Amendment(Commentby:SundayOctober21,2018)NationalEnvironmentalManagement:WasteAct:IndustryWasteTyreManagementPlans(Commentby:SundayOctober21,2018)ElectricityRegulat ionsAct:IntegratedResourcePlan2018(Commentby:FridayOctober26,2018)PharmacyAct:Rules:Goodpharmacypractice:Amendments(Commentby:WednesdayOctober31,2018)
SET-relatedpolicynewsDraftWhitePaperonScience,TechnologyandInnovation
SA'ssci-techwhitepaperoutforcommentCommentby:Friday19October2018(ITWeb)SouthAfricapushessciencetoimprovedailylife(Nature)Unionswillhavesayonriseofthemachines,ministervows(Fin24)
Indigenousknowledge
IndigenousKnowledgeBillsettobeenacted(SABC)
Medicineandhealth
Callsforact ionathistoricTBmeeting(Health24)Upto8MillionDeathsOccurinLow-andMiddle-IncomeCountriesYearlyDuetoPoor-QualityHealthCare,SaysNewReport;MajorQualityChasmMustBeFixedinOrdertoReapBenefitsofUniversalHealthCoverage(NationalAcademies)Wideinequalit iesinpeople’swell-beingcastashadowonsustainedhumandevelopmentprogress–HumanDevelopmentIndex(UNIC)
Waterandsanitation
FullsteamaheadforWater&Sanitat ionMasterPlan(infrastucturene.ws)
Climatechangeandenvironment
EnvironmentalAffairshighlightsprogressonimplementationofIntegratedStrategicManagementofRhinoceros(gov.za)NationsroundonUS,alliesasUNclimatetalkswrapup(M&G)
Energy
Affordabilityofenergymustbepriorit ised–Radebe(Polity)Coal-transit ionsupportshouldaidworkersandcommunit ies,notEskom–report(Polity)Reasonlightsupnewenergyplan(M&G)LifeafterCoalandGreenpeaceAfricaslamInclusionofNewCoalinElectricityPlan(AfricaNewsroom)Exclusionofnewnuclearpowercapacitynotdeliberate–Radebe(Polity)
4thIndustrialrevolution
Ramaphosawantssmart,connectedcit ies,sayssci-techminister(Polity)SAgovtlookstodevelopdatapolicy,drive5G(ITWeb)Youth,women,SMMEsatcentreofFourthIndustrialRevolut ion–Ramaphosa(Polity)
Economy
Ramaphosa’splantorevivetheeconomy:thedetails–“Statefundswillberedirectedtowardagriculture,whichthegovernmentseesashavingmassivepotentialtogreatjobs,aswellastost imulat ingeconomicact ivityintownshipsandruralareas.”(TechCentral)
Sciencerelations
SAandChinacelebratemilestonewithnewmineralresourcesjointresearchcentre(DST)
http://www.tank.co.za/6thInternationalConferenceonEthicsEducation:Stellenbosch,SouthAfrica,3-5October201836thAnnualInternationalNo-DigConferenceandExhibit ion:CapeTown,8-9October2018EduTECHAfrica2018andEduBUILDAfrica2018:Johannesburg,9-10October2018.ThisincludesaLEGO®EducationRoboticsInteractiveZone.WasteCon2018:Johannesburg,15-19October2018NationalHealthSummit–stakeholderstosubmitproposalsforinclusion:Gauteng,19-20October2018SAEnergyStorage2018:Johannesburg,22-23October201829thSAIIEannualconference–Steeringthe4thIndustrialRevolut ion:Stellenbosch,24-26October2018AAPGInternationalConferenceandExhibit ion:CapeTown,4-7November2018InternationalDataWeek2018(IDW2018)andSciDataCon2018:Gaborone,Botswana,5-8November2018ManufacturingIndabaWesternCape:CapeTown,7November2018SciCOM100*Conference2018:focusedonresearchinthefieldofsciencecommunication,StellenboschUniversity,6-7November201813thSouthernAfricanEnergyEfficiencyConfederationConference(2018SAEEC):13-14November2018DrugSafetyAfrica2018Conference:Potchefstroom,20-22November2018SecondInternationalSummitonHumanGenomeEdit ing:HongKong,27-29November2018DisruptivetechnologiesandpublicpolicyintheageoftheFourthIndustrialRevolut ion:Pretoria,10-12December2018ScienceForumSouthAfrica:SouthAfrica,12-14December2018TheWaterShowAfrica2019:Johannesburg,12-13March20193rdinternationalconferenceforwomeninsciencewithoutbordersmovement/network(WISWB):Egypt,12-14March2019Power&ElectricityWorldAfrica2019:26-27March2019TheSolarShowAfrica2019:26-27March2019EnergyEfficiencyWorld:26-27March2019ManufacturingIndaba:Johannesburg,25-26June20198thInternationalConferenceonEngineeringMathematicsandPhysics:Ningbo,China,28-30June2019
MembersofNSTFintheproSET(ProfessionalSociet ies)sectorarefeaturedineverynewsletter.ThismonthwelookatIEEEandSAIIE.
TheInst ituteofElectricalandElectronicsEngineer(IEEE)istheworld’slargesttechnicalprofessionalorganisationdedicatedtoadvancingtechnologyforthebenefit ofhumanity.Theorganisationanditsmembersinspireaglobalcommunitytoinnovateforabettertomorrowthroughitsmorethan423,000membersinover160countries.It alsodoesthisthroughitshighlycitedpublicat ions,conferences,technologystandards,andprofessionalandeducationalact ivit ies.ThewebsiteforIEEESouthAfricaprovidesnews,informationonevents,societ ies,andaffinitygroups.Thereisalsoaresourcessection.TheSouthernAfricanInst ituteforIndustrialEngineering(SAIIE)envisionsavibrant,learnedsociety,representingandpromotingallIndustrialEngineersinSouthernAfrica.Modernindustrialengineeringisconcernedwiththeintegrationofresourcesandprocessesintocohesivestrategies,structuresandsystemsfortheeffect iveandefficientproductionofqualitygoodsandservices.Onthewebsite,youwillfindnewsletters,informationoneventsandawards,linkstotheirjournalandmagazine,amongotheritems.
SETeducationSmartphonesadvanceliteracyinAfrica(ITWeb)Learnerstackleenvironmentalhealthforabetterfuture(Sangonet)#YouthReport2018:Generationjoblessandthehighinequalityeconomy(BizCommunity)WesternCapetoopenninesciencecentres(SABC)Newmobilescience,maths,techlaboratoryusingroboticstoinspirechildren(EngineeringNews)
Universitiesandhighereducation
DoesSouthAfricanresearchoutputpromoteinnovation?(SAJS)Discoveryreliesonstrongsupportstaff(Nature)Publicat ionincentivesbasedonjournalrankingsdisadvantagelocalpublicat ions(SAJS)NWUMahikengbecomesfirst historicallydisadvantagedcampustohostanastronomyobservatory(DST)CUTSolarProjectgetsanupgrade(BizCommunity)StudyonBuildingaCadreofEmergingScholarsforHigherEducationinSouthAfrica–Universit iesSouthAfricacarriedoutthisstudyonbehalfoftheDepartmentofScienceandTechnologyandtheCentreforResearchonEvaluation,ScienceandTechnology(DST)SouthAfrica’suniversitystudentsfaceacrisis:nearlyathirdgohungry(TheConversation)Corporatesponsorshipdivertsresearchanddistortspublicpolicy,reportfinds(TheGuardian)Research-intensiveuniversit iesinAfrica?Amodelofhowtobuildthem(TheConversation)
Industrydevelopmentandinnovation
Waste-to-energysavesmoneyandboostsproduction(eepublishers)Newbiorefineryresearchconsort iumtocreatevaluechainsfromwastebiomass(DST)CNN-flightedadvertproject inghugegrowthforplat inum-usingfuelcells(Polity)ExperimentalvaccineshowspromiseinpreventingTB(News24)Totaltorolloutsolar-poweredservicestat ionsinKrugerNationalPark(EngineeringNews)NewplantsettoturnSA’scoffeewasteintobiofuels(infrastucturene.ws)
Medicineandhealth
DidBigTobaccobuyTwitter?(M&G)CSIRunveilsnewtechfordiabetesmanagement(ITWeb)Gett ingthebalancerightindetectingdiabetes(BizCommunity)Cancercaseshavedoubledinthelast8years–thesearethemostcommontypes,accordingtoDiscovery(BusinessTech)Africanmid-levelhealthworkersneedbettertraining(BizCommunity)NationalCochraneLibrarylicencerenewed–TheSouthAfricanMedicalResearchCouncil(SAMRC)recentlyrenewedthenationalCochraneLibrarylicencethatwillmakeevidence-basedscientificreviewsaccessibletohealthcaredecisionmakersinSouthAfrica(SAMRC)Datadeficit marsAfricancontroloflifestylediseases(SciDevNet)Newcardiacsimulat ionlabtorevolut ionisemedicaltraining(BizCommunity)#Dagga:ConCourtsaysyestogett inghighinprivate(M&G)Legalisedpotspots:Ararityaroundtheworld(M&G)Listeriosisoutbreakofficiallyover–Motsoaledi(Polity)TheAgriculturalResearchCouncilconductsaresearchprogramtocult ivatehempformedicinalpurpose(ARC)Art ificialintelligencetotherescueinmedtech(ITWeb)NewPlatformLaunchedtoDriveDrugDiscoveryandScientificResearch(ehealthnews)Micro-TESEsurgeryresultsinSA'sfirst successfulpregnancy(BizCommunity)Climatechange,waterandthespreadofdiseases:connectingthedotsdifferently(TheConversation)BHFstudy:humanresourcesdistributionisgoodandbadnews(BizCommunity)Watch-likedevicehelpsalert hearingimpaired(SABC)
Palaeontologyandarchaeology
World’soldestdrawingisStoneAgecrayondoodle(Nature)plusDrawingonapieceofsilcretefoundinBlombosCavepredatesprevioushuman-madedrawingsbyatleast30,000yearsNewtechnologytellsuswhichanimalboneswereusedtomakeancienttools(TheConversation)Massivedinosaur‘bonebed’foundinECape(SABC)Whatwouldit meantodecolonisepalaeontology?Herearesomeideas(TheConversation)
Astronomyandspacescience
HowtechwillsupportlifeonMars(ITWeb)Takingearthobservationtothecontinent(eepublishers)TheGeneralAssemblyoftheInternationalAstronomicalUniontobehostedonAfricansoilforthefirst t imein2024(SKAAfrica)SpacetechneededtomonitorSDGs(SciDevNet)
Environment,climatechangeandenergyWater
20-millioninSAdeniedcleanwater(M&G)Scientistsstepupdemandforgovernmenttoprotectoceans(TimesLive)ManyresponsibleforVaalRiverpollut ion(SABC)Explainer:whatthereistoknowaboutSouthAfrica’saquifers(TheConversation)What’sthestorywithSA’swaterandsanitat ion?(infrastucturene.ws)CityTakingStepstoMinimizetheImpactoftheShotHoleBorer(Joburg.org.za)
Climatechangeandenvironment
BiodiversitystandardboostsNGOs(BusinessDay)Invasivepinesfueled2017firesinSouthAfrica(phys.org)Cutt ingoutmeatanddairyslashesyourcarbonfootprint(M&G)Theblueprintforhappiness(M&G)Workingoutwhat’sfairinconservationinsub-SaharanAfrica(TheConversation)Tackleinvasivespeciestorestoredegradedlandscapes(SciDevNet)S.Africarhinopoachingdropsbyaquarter(phys.org)DoesSouthAfricahaveamicroplast icsproblem?Ourresearchsaysyes(TheConversation)Africaneedstocooldown–urgently(M&G)Theecologyofdrought–aworkshopreport(SAJS)‘Plantblindness’isarealthing:whyit ’sarealproblemtoo(TheConversation)Understandingimplicat ionsof2°C-compatiblecoalphase-outplanforSA(eepublishers)WhynuclearenergyshouldbepartofAfrica’senergymix(TheConversation)Eskomdelaysfinalisat ionofnewstrategytomid-November(Polity)HydropowerisAfrica’sbiggamble(M&G)Studyreaffirmsrenewablesnowcheaperthancoal(ITWeb)HowsolarkitsandbatterylampsarereplacingkeroseneacrossAfrica(TheConversation)SAperspectiveinhighlyacclaimedWorldNuclearIndustryStatusReport(eepublishers)Blockchain,AI,3Dprint ingreducerenewablesprices(ITWeb)MicrogridsforproductiveuseofenergyinAfrica(eepublishers)Eskomhascoalshortagesattenpowerplants–spokesperson(Polity)SasolSolarChallengeheatsup(ITWeb)Explainer:whylithiumionbatteriescouldbeagamechangerinAfrica(TheConversation)
Agriculture
GrowthandjobsinSouthAfrica'sagriculturalsector(BizCommunity)FoodinsecurityrisinginAfrica(M&G)Winetechseeksentrepreneurstodisruptwineindustry(ITWeb)CouldthefutureoffoodintheworlddependonwhatAfricadoeswithagriculture?(AfricaNewsroom)FoodandagriculturaltechnologycanenabletheemergingtourismsectoracrossAfrica(BizCommunity)Orientalfruit flydetectedinfarmsaroundUpington(SABC)AfDBseekspartnershipstolift 1bnpeopleoutofhunger(EngineeringNews)'Fakefood'inSouthAfrica:myths,misinformationandnotenoughdata(BizCommunity)‘Baobabtreesaredyingout’(SABC)Crop-eatingpestcouldhit Africafoodsupplies:experts(phys.org)Whydevelopingcountriesshouldboostthewaysofsmall-scalefarming(TheConversation)
Technologyandthe4thIndustrialRevolution
TherushfordatarisksgrowingtheNorth-Southdivide(SciDevNet)Machinestohandlehalfofworktasksby2025(TechCentral)#SA4IRtohelpSAmasterfourthindustrialrevolut ion(ITWeb)SmartTrucks:Costreductionall-roundwhilemaintainingcompetit iveadvantage(CSIR)Batt lefieldMedicsandStudentDoctorsCouldUseAugmentedRealitytoGetHelpFromFarawaySurgeons(PopularMechanics)Theairportofthefutureishere–andit doesn’t needhumans(TechCentral)Manypopulat ionsfearbigjoblossfromautomation:survey(phys.org)Gartnerliststop10techtrendsfor2019(ITWeb)
Opportunities
JapanScienceandTechnologyAgency- JapanInternationalCooperationAgency-ScienceandTechnologyResearchPartnershipforSustainableDevelopment–aCallforProposals2018(NRF)AfricanUnionKwameNkrumahAwardsforScientificExcellence(ASSAf)Promotingefficienciesfor‘GreenTourism’(infrastucturene.ws)
Obituary:Prof.PhilipLloyd(eepublishers)SouthAfrica’stophealthresearchershonouredforcontributionstopublichealth(SAMRC)CSIRresearchercracksunconventionalmethodtoenhancethebrightnessofsolid-statelasers–DrDarrylNaidoo(CSIR)ProfessorLucilleBlumbergreceivestheSAMRCSpecialAward(NICD)ProfessorPennyMoorereceivedaSilverMedalfromSAMRC(NICD)SAlearnertakessilveratmentalcalculat ionworldchamps(BizCommunity)Limpopoaspiringscientiststopart icipateinUSscienceprogram(SABC)ThreeUCTlecturerspart icipateininternationalSolarDecathloncompetit ion(EngineeringNews)
Pleaseforwardthise-mailtoyourcolleagues,businesscontactsandallinterestedpersons!
SendusyournewsTheNSTFinvitesallourmembers,aswellasallSETandinnovationroleplayers,tosendusinformationonmeetings,conferencesandactivitiesofinteresttothebroaderS&Tcommunity.Pleasesendusyournewsbythe20thofthemonth,fordistributionatthebeginningofthefollowingmonth,[email protected]
FeedbackIfyouhaveanycommentsorsuggestionsonhowwecanimprovethisnewsletter,[email protected]
AbouttheNSTFTheNationalScienceandTechnologyForum(NSTF),establishedin1995,isabroadly-representativestakeholderbodyforallSETandinnovationorganisationsinSouthAfrica,whichseekstoinfluencepolicyformulationanddelivery.TheNSTF-South32AwardsareuniqueinSA,recognisingtheoutstandingcontributionsofindividualsandgroupstoSETandinnovation.Thesciencebursariespageprovidesinformationonbursariesandbursaryprovidersforscience,engineeringandrelatedstudies.
DisclaimerTheNSTFhastakenallpracticalmeasurestoensurethatthematerialcontainedinthisnewsletteriscorrect.TheNSTFreservestherighttomakechangesasitdeemsnecessary.PrivacyRegistrationdetailssubmittedtotheNSTFwillbetreatedconfidentiallyandwillonlybeusedbyNSTFtocommunicatewithitsmembersandsubscribers.
Formoreinformationwww.nstf.org.zaE-mail:[email protected]:27128413987Fax:27128413025NonProfitCompanyRegistrationNumber:2007/029165/08NPORegistrationNumber:92042DonortaxexemptionforalldonationstotheNSTF
