The National Research Foundation of South Africa (NRF)

"As the NRF, our advice to young researchers is to set up clear goals from the beginning about how they want their relationship with their mentor to unfold. Communicate these goals; be proactive in taking initiative; and most importantly, be open to feedback." Dr Mbulelo Ncango, NRF Senior Manager: Next Generation and Emerging Researchers, participated in a recent workshop organised by USAF on Effective Mentorship and exploring ways to navigate mentorship relationships. In his talk, Dr Ncango explained how his role and involvement with mentoring have been nuanced around setting up frameworks that enable the right level of mentorship for early career researchers.

Cape Town’s Pierhead at the V&A Waterfront turned into a dynamic open-air platform for learning and debate during the recent Soapbox Science event. Eleven inspiring speakers from South Africa’s leading institutions shared insights on topics ranging from nuclear physics and astronomy to vaccine development and archaeology. The event was co-hosted by the University of Cape Town, NRF-iThemba LABS, NRF-SAAO, and the V&A Waterfront. 

Are academia and academic research stuck in a space where the most important things are profit for publishers and prestige for researchers? Dr Nokuthula Mchunu, a Deputy Director at the NRF, reminds us that if the goal is equity, inclusion, and social benefit, the "current approach will never get us there".

The sky belongs to us all, and any aspect of astronomy can be used to impact society. Perhaps you have an interesting idea on how to connect people with astronomy? Mr Kevin Govender tells us more about the funding opportunities offered by the Office of Astronomy for Development. #SAASTEC24 IAU Office of Astronomy for Development Mpendulo Sibiya

Did you know that NRF-SAASTA provides science centres in South Africa with funding, training opportunities and accreditation? Dr Mamoeletsi Mosia, PhD Mosia, Managing Director of NRF-SAASTA, tells us more. South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRF SAASTA). Mpendulo Sibiya. #SAASTEC24

The future of Astronomy in South Africa is bright. Did you know that NRF-SAAO recently opened a visitor's centre in Cape Town, filled with local knowledge and modern technology? Acting Manager of NRF-SAAO, Dr Rosalind Skelton, tells us more. #SAASTEC24 South African Astronomical Observatory. Mpendulo Sibiya

Do you know what a 'science centre' is? At the current 25th SAASTEC Annual Conference 2024, hosted by NRF-SAAO, we learned more about the great work of the Southern African Association of Science and Technology Centres (SAASTEC). Watch the interview with Professor Rufus Wesi, the Chair of SAASTEC. Mpendulo Sibiya. South African Astronomical Observatory. #SAASTEC24

Welcome to the 25th SAASTEC Annual Conference 2024, hosted by NRF-SAAO, where science centres, science communicators, educators, and innovators come together to explore the theme: "Science Engagement: Embracing Research and Innovation in Bridging the Gap Between Science & Society." #SAASTEC24 South African Astronomical Observatory

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation and the NRF have officially launched the Expanded Freshwater and Terrestrial Environmental Observation Network (EFTEON), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing South Africa’s environmental monitoring capabilities. This marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to improve and expand the long-term monitoring and management of both freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems. EFTEON is managed by NRF-SAEON.

Meet NRF-funded PATTY NOKULUNGA MASUKU, a Master’s student in Research Psychology at the University of Johannesburg: https://lnkd.in/djnfSqs6. Her research looks at how the alcohol consumption patterns of university students changed during the pandemic, and the factors that may have influenced the level of alcohol consumption.