By Siya Hobo

 

The 68th Annual Conference of the South African Institute of Physics (SAIP) was held at Rhodes University between 1-5 July 2024, and brought together students, professionals, educators, and government officials.

The conference commenced with a welcome address by Dr Kwezi Mzilikazi, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Strategic Partnerships at Rhodes University, who set the stage by highlighting the conference's crucial role in promoting cutting-edge research and facilitating a vibrant exchange of ideas among participants. Attendees were reminded of Rhodes University's historical legacy as the birthplace of South Africa's first email, symbolising a tradition of innovation that continues to inspire breakthroughs in physics and beyond.

In her opening remarks, Dr Mzilikazi underscored the conference's alignment with Rhodes University's commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. She outlined the conference's agenda, which showcases groundbreaking research and includes initiatives aimed at empowering the next generation of physicists through educational programs and gender diversity initiatives within the field.

Dr Rudolph Erasmus, President of the SAIP, echoed these sentiments, expressing enthusiasm for the conference as a hub for scientific discourse and collaboration. With a robust agenda covering diverse topics such as astrophysics, condensed matter physics, and theoretical research, the conference provides a fertile ground for researchers to explore new frontiers and challenge existing paradigms.

The keynote addresses was given by the Acting Director General at the Department of Science and Innovation, Mr Takalani Nemaungani, reaffirming government support for scientific research and innovation. His presence underscored the importance of fostering a conducive environment for physics research, teaching and application in South Africa, setting a promising trajectory for future advancements in the field.

A notable highlight of the conference was the active participation of students and early-career researchers, reflecting a keen interest in pushing the boundaries of physics research. Sessions dedicated to showcasing research findings from postgraduate and doctoral studies provide a platform for young scientists to present their work, engage in mentorship opportunities, and contribute to the discourse on emerging trends in physics.  Presentations from invited speakers covered such subjects as quantum computing, materials science, and the Earth’s magnetic anomaly.   There were two ancillary activities namely, a winter school on defects in solids as well as a teacher development workshop intended to improve the teaching ca[ability of High school teachers in the Eastern Cape. 

Beyond academic sessions, the conference fosters networking opportunities and collaborative partnerships among attendees. These interactions not only facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations but also explore avenues for leveraging physics to address regional socio-economic challenges, demonstrating the transformative potential of scientific research in society.

Dr Erasmus commended the organisers, led by the Head of Physics, Prof Makaiko Chithambo, for their meticulous planning and execution, recognising their efforts to ensure a seamless and impactful conference experience. He encouraged attendees to actively participate in division meetings and contribute to shaping the future agenda of the SAIP, underscoring the importance of collective engagement in advancing the institute's mission.

The annual SAIP conference exemplifies a commitment to innovation and collaboration, marking it as a pivotal moment for the physics community in South Africa. As Rhodes University continues its 120-year legacy of excellence, events like these reaffirm its role as a beacon for scientific advancement and academic achievement.

For more information about SAIP, please go to: https://www.saip.org.za/about-us/