African European Astronomy Partnerships Conference

General Info

Start date:2011-05-31

End date:

The South African Department of Science and Technology hosted a high-level conference in Brussels on 31 May to promote astronomy partnerships between Africa and Europe and highlight how such cooperation can significantly advance excellence in global frontier research. South African Government Minister Naledi Pandor delivered the introductory speech on Astronomy as a Flagship for African-European Science Cooperation

The South African Department of Science and Technology hosted a high-level conference in Brussels on 31 May to promote astronomy partnerships between Africa and Europe and highlight how such cooperation can significantly advance excellence in global frontier research.  The event presented new African astronomy projects such as the MeerKAT radio telescope and the planned Africa VLBI Network as well as the exciting cooperation opportunities they offer to Europe. Conference discussions also focused on how astronomy partnerships contribute to human capital development for research, enable innovation and technological spin-offs, and support sustainable development.

South African Minister for Science and Technology, Ms Naledi Pandor, delivered the keynote address at the Conference’s high-level segment on Tuesday 31 May 2011. The group of distinguished speakers also included Professor Jean-Pierre Ezin, African Union Commissioner for Human Resources, Science and Technology; Dr Marcel Van de Voorde of the Max Planck Society; Dr Andy Cherry of the Association of Commonwealth Universities; Professor George Miley of the International Astronomical Union; Professor Roy Booth, Associate Director of MeerKAT for Science Operations; and Dr Val Munsami, Deputy-Director for Research, Development and Innovation at the South African Department of Science and Technology.

This event is now complete. For further information on the outcomes of the event please see our News section