science NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013& technology OF ACCESS TO INFORMATION... · 2017. 3. 26. ·...

sciencetechnology

&NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

insideThe Nation mourns the passing of Nelson Mandela .................... 1Interview with the Minister ............................................................ 2Message from the Director-General ............................................... 3UNESCO Conference ......................................................................... 4�� .................................................... 6World Space Week 2013 ................................................................ 7Rewards and recognition .............................................................. 23New appointments ........................................................................ 25

The DST also scooped the 2013 award for the best-functioning department by the Department of Public Service and Administration. Well done to all of you for the contribution that you are making in your work! Not to be outdone was the National Indigenous Knowledge �� recognition from the Knowledge Economy Network for its efforts to enhance indigenous knowledge systems in the country.

Also in this edition are end-of-year messages from the Minister and Director-General.

We bring you news about the recent launch of South �� " ��#��base in Russia. Find out more about its Sesotho name. The launch of the nanosatellite came a month after activities for World Space Week were held throughout �� $�� %��%��'�� Kimberley.

(�� )�� *��'� �� +��Network training programme marks the start of an initiative to strengthen African technical capability �� ,��,�� '� �� /�4� #�$� �� read about the digital planetarium on Naval Hill in �� %�� ,�� '�� $��4� (�� ,��$�� ,�� 5��'�$�'� 5$��,�� ,��,�� and Space.

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an extension of the broader Presidential Infrastructure ��'��4

In this edition we feature the exciting new way that Germany and South Africa are using to communicate science to young people – the “science slam” – and ��'�%��8�� $�� #�$�'� �� $��Programme. Read more about how this programme provides multidisciplinary training to young master’s and doctoral researchers. We also have an article about the learners who beat the competition in South ��(�,�#�$�'�+��4

In our regular series on Enterprise Risk Management we provide a high-level overview of business continuity management policy and programme management. This comes a few days after the Department’s participation ��$,��5��9��":�;��%��":�7��%��< ��=��+��'��>4

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Have a good rest over the holidays and come back to work safely in 2014.

Enjoy the read!

Tommy Makhode

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“A life well lived”, South Africans agreed as they said farewell to the Father of the Nation, former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. The 95-year-old elder statesman passed away on Thursday 5 December at his Houghton home in Johannesburg.

Such was the stature of the former President that world leaders clamoured to attend the memorial service held on December 10. More than 50 presidents, 15 prime ministers and nine royals, including kings, queens and princesses, descended on South Africa to attend the memorial service. Nelson Mandela’s funeral will go down in the annals of history to rival the likes of Mahatma Ghandi, John F Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Princess Diana and Pope John Paul II. Thousands of people braved the cold rainy weather to attend the service.

His deep sense of forgiveness and reconciliation extended to both the oppressed and oppressors of South Africa’s past, despite a 27-year incarceration, earning him the love and admiration of a global audience. “If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.” Such sentiments, expressed in so many of his quotes, endeared him to all and served to inspire millions of people.

US President Barack Obama, who attended the service with no less than three former presidents of his country, paid a moving tribute to Mr Mandela. He said that Nelson Mandela had not only embodied ubuntu, but he ��

“It took a man like Madiba to free not just the prisoner, but the jailer as well, to show that you must trust others so that they may trust you, to teach reconciliation is not a matter of ignoring a cruel past, but a means of confronting it with inclusion, generosity and truth. He changed laws, but also hearts,” Mr Obama said to rapturous applause from the crowd.

While the passing of such a beloved leader is cause for great sadness, South Africa and the world marked the occasion by celebrating one of the greatest heroes of �� respect for human rights.

President Jacob Zuma, in his tribute, said: “Nelson �� to inspire our people every single day from inside prison walls.” The President also announced that the amphitheatre at the Union Buildings where Mr Mandela’s body was lying in state will be renamed the Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre.

The former President spent 18 of his 27 years of incarceration on Robben Island. The last apartheid era President, FW de Klerk, released Mr Mandela in 1990 after negotiations with the African National Congress.

Tata Madiba’s struggle for freedom, equality and unity earned him and FW de Klerk the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 for their efforts to bring about reconciliation after decades of apartheid. Nelson Mandela was inaugurated �� !��""#��$�%%��&'��(��

The Minister of Science and Technology, Derek Hanekom, led the science community in paying their last respects to the world icon at a service held at the CSIR Convention Centre on December 12. Mr Hanekom hosted the event for the staff of the Department of Science and )�� *��+�� $��/�� Industrial Research, the Technology Innovation Agency, the Human Sciences Research Council, the National Research Foundation, the Academy of Science of South Africa, and the South African National Space Agency).

Bittersweet farewell to Tata MadibaBy Taslima Viljoen

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Challenging, exciting and a huge learning curve.

What do you see as the highlights of the year?

I knew we were off to a good year when the Minister of Finance announced the R2 billion allocation to the SKA ��6�� ;��/�� &��'��<!�#�� the implementation year, this was the boost we needed. )�� $��=#>��(?)�� and will be completed by 2016. We look forward to the �� $��(�� E��$�<!�#�

This year we also began to implement some of the Ministerial Review Recommendations. For instance, in addressing the recommendation on Bringing industry and government closer together to strengthen the NSI, Q�� $��>��/�� )�� and Innovation Summit in July. The summit was attended by a broad spectrum of scientists, business people and organisations representing academia, state-funded research organisations and professional societies operating in the domain of technology and innovation. The discussions and inputs were valuable and will help us strengthen our National System of Innovation.

We also welcomed Mike Masutha as Deputy Minister – a valuable addition to the DST family.

Initiatives like the Titanium pilot plant, launched a few months ago, and the soon-to-be-launched Multipurpose Fluorination Pilot Plant have been described as “game �� V�� drive towards transforming our economy into a knowledge-based one. The recent approval by Cabinet of the Bioeconomy Strategy, as well as the launching into space of Tshepiso, ��X � �>��V�� Cape Peninsula University of Technology students, were just the perfect ending to a successful year, and we look $�� <!�#Y�

The Department was named as the best-functioning national department for 2013. How do you see this achievement?

The Department has gone to great lengths to put in place measures and systems to support its work, such as adequate planning processes, continuous monitoring and evaluation of its work and functional management structures. This performance of the Department will contribute towards the goal of the National Development Plan to professionalise the Public Service and improve service delivery.

)��[/)�� E��shows that DST staff respect taxpayers’ money.

What plans do you have for the Department in 2014?

The Department’s vision remains to create a prosperous �� science and technology. Investing in science and technology to improve the living conditions of our people is one of our key strategic priorities.

Through our programmes we will continue to strive towards the goals of eliminating poverty and reducing inequality, as envisioned in the National Development Plan.

What is your festive season message for the DST staff?

A big “thank you” to the Director-General, Phil Mjwara, and all DST employees for their dedicated efforts to get science and technology to make a real, lasting difference in people’s lives.

I wish you and your families a joyful and peaceful festive �� $�� <!�#�

Interview with the MinisterBy Asanda Mapolisa

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What were the highlights for the Department this year?

The Department demonstrated its commitment to achieving its targets on a yearly basis. In this regard, the Department was awarded the best performing national department for this year by the DPSA.

The DST continued to position South Africa as a strategic international research, development and innovation partner and destination through the exchange of knowledge, capacity and resources with Southern Africa, the continent and international partners.

I would like to highlight three achievements. Firstly, in ��$� ��/(?�� $� �� detailed design of one MeerKAT antenna had been �� &��<!�#��

Secondly, on the health side there was the announcement of a malaria drug that shows potential against multiple points in the malaria parasite’s life cycle, and there was the discovery of potent antibodies that can kill 88% of HIV found throughout the world. This groundbreaking discovery provides important clues that could be used in developing a vaccine against HIV and Aids.

Thirdly, there have been some exciting developments in the National Hydrogen and Fuels Cells Technologies Research, Development and Innovation Strategy front, and commercial opportunities are beginning to arise.

What are some of the challenges that the DST encountered?

)�� $�� people in the Department who have moved on, but we ��

What areas do you think you deserve more attention in 2014?

Q�� $��$�� improve human capital development. We must continue supporting master’s and PhD students and ensure that the number of knowledge outputs grows. We must strengthen our drive to facilitate the conversion of research ideas to commercialised products, and we must ensure that the institutions that report to the Ministry are working in tandem and that they continue to perform well.

What is your message to DST staff for the festive season?

I thank all DST staff for their hard work and their support for the activities of the Department. We would not have achieved what we did if it was not for the dedication displayed by staff. I am also grateful for the support of the Minister and the newly appointed Deputy Minister.

Everyone must relax over the festive season, knowing that they will return in the new year to continue the Department’s excellent work.

End-of-Year Message from the Director-GeneralBy Asanda Mapolisa

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The General Conference is the main governing body of ��_ ��`�� {�� /�� +��Organization (UNESCO) and meets every two years, bringing together the 195 Member States and nine Associate Members to determine UNESCO’s policies, main lines of work and budget for the biennium.

The Director General, Dr Phil Mjwara, was appointed as the President/Chair of the Science Commission for the ~%�� $�_`{/+��Q��?$��has held such a position, highlighting the important role played by South Africa’s science, technology and innovation community. He will serve as the Science Commission President for the next two years until a new President for the 38th session is appointed.

He will be assisted by the following Vice Chairs: Mr Axel Meisen, Canada, Group I; Mr Ervin Balázs, Hungary, Group II; Mr Iskandar Zulkarnaen, Indonesia, Group IV; Mr Khalid Al-Ali, Qatar, Group V(b); and the Rapporteur, Mr Lucas Hernan Franco Godoy, Paraguay, Group III.

The plenary of the Science Commission was held on 19 November 2013 and inter alia considered the adoption

�$� ��[��$�� ;�� $��<!�#><!�%��the Youth Forum, the proclamation by the United Nations of 2015 as the International Year of Light, the International Year of Water Cooperation, and the UNESCO Global Geoparks Initiative.

The establishment of an African Centre for Global Change and Water Resources Research in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, was endorsed during the General Conference. It will ��

The General Conference set the direction for UNESCO’s work over the next eight years and adopted the new ��)�� /�� *<!�#><!<��)�� _`{/+�� development objectives that will replace the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in the areas of education, science, culture, communication and information. It also �� ?$�� E�� as the top global priorities over the next eight years, � �� overarching objectives that will guide all its activities. &�� will stay at the top of UNESCO’s agenda.

37th Session of the United Nations Educational, ��

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��!��"��#�� By Zama Mthethwa

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) hosted an information and communication technology (ICT) networking session at the Digital Europe ICT 2013 event on 7 November 2013 in Vilnius, Lithuania, in Europe.

The objective of the session was to highlight the South Africa-European Union (EU) ICT research and innovation cooperation as part of the Digital Agenda for Europe ICT 2013 event and in preparation for Horizon 2020 – the EU Framework Programme for Research � ��Q �� $��<!�#��<!<!�

The networking session highlighted the many exciting ICT opportunities that South African and European research and technology organisations can cooperate on.

The theme for the networking session was “Accelerating the South African Digital Advantage Vision through Enhanced ICT Research and Innovation Cooperation between South Africa and the EU”.

The session provided an opportunity for the DST to present the Cabinet-approved ICT Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Implementation Roadmap, which is aimed at strengthening ICT research and development in South Africa.

Speaking about the roadmap, Ms Jeanette Morwane, Director: ICT and Service Industry, said, “The ICT RDI Roadmap is a ten-year investment and implemementation plan for ICT RDI and provides a good platform for guiding strategic partnerships with our local and international partners.”

)�� $��[/)�� $�� researchers at the event showcased the country’s ICT RDI capabilities and provided a networking opportunity with European counterparts for possible partnerships.

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Tshepiso�� $�/��?$�� >satellite, code named ZACube-1, which was launched into space from the Yasny launch base in Russia on 21 November.

Meaning Promise in Setswana and Sesotho, the name Tshepiso was submitted by Chachane Kgothalang, a grade 9 learner of Bethel Junior Secondary School in Matatiele, Eastern Cape.

The winning name was among the entries received in a national competition launched by the DST and managed by the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement earlier this year.

The purpose of the competition was to create awareness of the cube satellite and give learners an opportunity to contribute to the space science and technology programme.

Funded by the DST, the nano-satellite was designed and built by Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) postgraduate students in collaboration with the South African National Space Agency, following the CubeSat programme at the French South African Institute of Technology (F’SATI).

Addressing delegates who attended the live streaming of the launch of the satellite in Cape Town, Mr Humbulani Mudau, Chief Director: Space Science and Technology, said that the government was very excited about CPUT’s achievement: “We in government, particularly the Department of Science and Technology, are very excited at the milestone that has been reached by CPUT in putting Africa – not just South Africa – on the map with the launch of a successful cube satellite that has in it a payload that will ensure that we better understand space weather.”

Prof. Robert van Zyl, director of the F’SATI programme, explained that CubeSats are extremely small satellites in the form of 10 cm cubes and with a mass of up to 1 kg (although there are some made up of two or three such cubes).

“Originally developed in the US, they are becoming increasingly popular with universities and technology institutes around the world owing to their considerable �� satellites have come a long way since Sputnik, the � �� !"#$� ��%& '�� (��)�� * �� *��

CubeSats provide hands-on experience for engineers and technologists in their design and construction, and, � �� experiments and projects.

Tshepiso will be placed in orbit at an altitude of 600 km. Its main mission will be to gather data on space weather for the South African National Space Agency.

Established in 2009, the CubeSat programme has ��~<�� #<��number of F’SATI alumni at CPUT. The programme has also provided internships to 15 of the graduates as engineers-in-training.

The CPUT Vice Chancellor, Prof. Vuyisa Mazwi-Tanga, said that the institution was making history by developing the satellite.

“Today I believe that all universities of technology are vindicated,” she said.

�� $��%��nano-satellite,

TSHEPISOBy Zama MthethwaPictures by Nqobile Ngema

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It was an eventful World Space Week for South Africa this year, as the Department of Science and Technology sought �� $�� technology in the country.

'�� /��'�� $�� #� �� !�October, and this year the theme was “Exploring Mars, Discovering Earth”.

One of the highlights of the week was the support South Africa received from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), an agency of the United States government that is responsible for their civilian space programme and aeronautics and aerospace research.

This support was embodied by the visit of Dr Woodrow Whitlow Jr, the retired Associate Administrator for Mission Support at NASA. Dr Whitlow attended all the events that the Department, the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) had arranged to showcase space science in the country.

)��$$�� #�� $�an In-Orbit Test (IOT) facility at SANSA Space Operations in Hartesbeesthoek. The facility consists of a new band � �� E�� Q�)�equipment and infrastructure to assist clients successfully commission new satellites.

Addressing guests, the Director-General, Dr Mjwara, expressed his pleasure at the progress SANSA had made � �� exploration was becoming part of the national mission. He noted that government could do even more and would push space industry activity to a new level.

On 5 October, an open day was held at Diamantveld High School in Kimberly in the Northern Cape to expose high school learners to space science. Attended by over 600 learners, the open day exposed the learners and the general public to the country’s achievements in space science, including one of the world’s major space projects, the Square Kilometre Array radio telescope, the major part of which will be situated in the province near Carnarvon.

Dr Whitlow gave a keynote address on the importance of space exploration and why everyone should participate in these endeavours. He encouraged the learners to study hard as it was important for the number of students studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics to increase.

“Each of you has the ability to do something great with your lives. All you need to do is couple that ability with desire. It won’t be easy, and you won’t always be comfortable. But you must get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Greatness requires you to move out of your comfort zones. To achieve greatness, you must commit to excellence and �� $��are.”

On 8 October, SANSA’s Earth observation programme launched the Fundisa Disk in Pretoria. The disk carries a variety of Earth observation data in line with the high school Geography syllabus.

The celebration of World Space Week in South Africa ended on 9 October with the unveiling of the SuperDARN Radar (Super Dual Auroral Radar Network), a new high-frequency digital radar array that monitors space weather and can help predict extreme activity in the sun. It took place at SANSA Space Science in Hermanus in the Western Cape.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Malinga said the new radar was not only a milestone for national and international space weather research, but it had provided a unique platform for developing skills in space science and technology.

Dr Lee-Ann Mckinnell, SANSA Space Science Managing Director, explained that communication and navigation technology, town planning, and resource and disaster management were highly dependent on satellites operating in the space environment.

“Understanding this environment has become vital in order to protect technology in space and on Earth from the devastating effects of space weather,” said Dr Mckinnell.

World Space Week 2013: “Exploring Mars, Discovering Earth” ��$��&�� &��'�� &�� &��

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)�� `�� Q �� ( �� /�� $��(NIKSO) has received international recognition for its efforts to enhance indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) in the country.

`Q(/�� $� �� $��innovation by the Knowledge Economy Network (KEN), �� $�� +�� )�� $�� <<� �� <#�October, with the theme “Promoting innovation through education and research”.

The KEN Awards are given for excellent global achievements in education, research and development, innovation and entrepreneurship. The forum attracted over 120 participants, including policy makers, entrepreneurs and academics, to discuss the current state of knowledge development in the world.

Established in 2006, NIKSO is involved in developing appropriate and unique human capital, creating world-class infrastructure, training researchers and enabling technology transfer in IKS.

Expressing excitement at the award, NIKSO Chief Director, Prof. Yonah Seleti, attributed this recognition to several factors, including policy and a holistic approach to IKS development in the country.

“Our research and innovation is even attracting multinational companies to work with us,” said Prof. Seleti, adding that companies such as L’Oreal were eager to partner with NIKSO in bio-prospecting and product development.

Prof. Seleti said the challenge was now how to make innovation and business models inclusive. “We thus hope to bring our people into the global economy on the basis of their own indigenous knowledge. We hope to make South African traditional medicines into global medicines and indigenous foods into global foods – ‘Proudly South ?$�� YV

`Q(/�� vegetable products whose nutritional content is ready for commercialisation locally and internationally. Products include indigenous health teas, rich in antioxidants and �� $��

cosmeceutical products for preventing sun damage to skin, anti-hair loss and wrinkle treatments, and a skin-tone evener.

Another notable achievement for NIKSO was the launch of the National Recordal System earlier this year. This system uses cutting-edge technology to document and record IKS. Collected at grassroots level, this knowledge helps improve our understanding of how indigenous communities can empower themselves and manage their own development.

KEN’s chairperson, Dr Boris Cizelj, highlighted the number of professional and technical skills NIKSO had made possible, saying knowledge was the basis of capital innovation.

“The generation of new knowledge as displayed in the registration and prospective trademark registration is indicative of the novelty and cutting-edge research as a subject of accelerated social innovation drive,” said Dr Cizelj.

He added that direct contributions to achieving the knowledge economy targets included the use of information and communication technology to place IKS at the core of South Africa’s National System of Innovation for research and development purposes.

KEN Awards were also presented to four international institutions for their part in enhancing the knowledge economy in their countries. The Israeli company, Yeda R&D Company Ltd, received an award for being a world pioneer in technology transfer since 1959, accounting for US$8 billion in licensed product sales.

The Qatar Foundation was awarded for demonstrating an impressive example of modern knowledge with its Education City, built completely from scratch and covering � ��$��#��E��)��$�{�� +��is to be a centre of educational excellence in the Gulf, partnering with world-class universities and setting up a number of commercial joint ventures.

[��)��[?�>~!�*�� market index) company to introduce a ratio for employing females. About 28% of its leadership positions outside the �� $��<#�� <!�!�

The Nordic Council of Ministers received an award for its model of entrepreneurship education, adopted as a national strategy, for entrepreneur development. It involves schools, higher education institutions, NGOs, unions and national and local authorities.

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By Veronica Mohapeloa

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Durban hosts &!'��conferenceBy Nqobile Ngema

+��$��,��,��9+B<��%��,�� ,��$��$��[��$�� have made to migrate from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-based economy.

This was according to Minister Hanekom, who addressed delegates at the conference focusing on “Creating and Leveraging Intellectual Property in Developing Countries: A Power Tool for Social and Economic Growth” at the Southern Sun Elangeni in Durban from 17 to 20 November 2013.

The Minister delivered the opening address on Monday, 18 November 2013, and the Minister of Trade and Industry,

Dr Rob Davies, addressed the delegates at the gala dinner on the same day.

Co-hosted by the National Intellectual Property �� $��*`Q��$�/��?$�� the Department of Trade and Industry’s Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), the conference brought together IP specialists from around the globe to share expertise and exchange knowledge and best practices on promoting IP commercialisation opportunities in the developing world context.

It provided a platform to promote inter alia a positive IP culture and capacity building in Africa and increase awareness of the economic and social value of domestically created IP in Africa, BRICS and other developing countries.

�� $�Q�� that, over the years, the engine of wealth creation had been shifting from physical, tangible assets to intellectual capital, or intangible assets. In this regard, competitive advantage was created through the strategic management and use of IP.

“The World Economic Forum global competitiveness reports have consistently brought our attention to the strong correlation between the protection of intellectual property rights and a nation’s competitiveness; accordingly, a strong IP foundation serves as an attractor of direct foreign investment,” he said.

The conference attendees were linked via videoconference �� $�� $�� $��;�Q+/�� International guests, including Prof. Robert Langer from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), who has created over 200 companies and holds over 800 patents, shared their entrepreneurial expertise with delegates.

Q � �� +��$� Q �� $��of both Johnson & Johnson (Philip C Johnson) and ��*��'�� Global IP&Standards General Manager, Phillips Group Innovation(the Netherlands), and Morne Barradas (Lead IP Legal Advisor: Risk and Compliance, Sasol Group Services (South Africa), discussed the importance of innovation and provided insight into how African inventors can work with large industries.

The conference also included an inaugural African IP Exhibition Hall with booths, posters and exhibits by African inventors.

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�� ,�� "�;��%�� '��,��$��;��?��[��Sub-Saharan Africa. It enables researchers to ��$��,��'�4�

)�� $�� Municipality’s proposed Centre for Earth and Space. It will include an interactive science hall, sculpture garden, observation platform, coffee shop and possibly a facility for environmental education.

Situated at the old Lamont-Hussey Observatory building, this state-of-the-art facility was conceptualised and driven by the University of the Free State with the support of the Department of Science and Technology, the Free State Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs and the Mangaung Metro Municipality.

?��$�� [�� $�/�� and Technology, Michael Masutha, said that the location of the planetarium on Naval Hill indicated a fresh approach to South Africa’s science awareness and engagement campaign. He thanked all role players who were involved in making the planetarium project a reality.

“This approach integrates science awareness and engagement with tourism. Although there are many countries whose science centres and related facilities are part of the tourism network, the location of this planetarium in a game reserve adds to its uniqueness,” said the Deputy Minister. “The integrated approach offered by this facility will help us increase the participation of the general public in science awareness and engagement programmes. The planetarium will offer visitors an opportunity to interact in a very interesting way with Earth, space and life sciences.”

The digital planetarium makes use of advanced digital data projectors that collectively display a full-dome video image with millions of pixels on the dome. It is a multipurpose facility that can be used for all types of sciences that use projections – not just astronomy.

The system makes it possible to display 3-D spatial effects, such as the structure of molecules and compounds, as ��{��

Speaking about the project, the Free State MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mr Mosebenzi Zwane, said the digital plane-tarium was history in the making: the establishment of � � �� >�� $�� ;��$� �� a feather in the cap for the entire country.

He said it would attract tourists, leading to job creation and economic development, and would position the city as a tourist destination of choice nationally and internationally.

He added that, with the cooperation of tertiary institutions like the University of the Free State and the University of Michigan in the United States, the province would be a major learning hub.

A key role player in the project, Dr Matie Hoffman of the University of the Free State’s Department of Physics, said the planetarium would be an invaluable astronomical research and education facility.

Prof. Nicky Morgan, the Vice-Rector of Operations of the university, applauded the venture, saying that the university, together with the private sector, would promote tourism, education and economic development in the region: “We are honoured to be in this position and we accept the responsibility of establishing and operating the planetarium with all who have contributed,” he said.

First digital planetarium opens in Sub-Saharan Africa

By Zama Mthethwa

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The University of the Free State will be responsible for operating and managing the planetarium and for fundraising activities.

Other partners include the Hermann Ohlthaver Trust, the Joan St Leger Lindbergh Charitable Trust, the Old Mutual Foundation, the Raubex Group, Sun International through its Windmill Corporate Social Investment arm, the American Museum of Natural History and the University of Michigan.

South Africa hosted a two-day “Global Monitoring for Environment and Security & Africa (GMES & Africa)” validation workshop at the Birchwood Hotel and +� $�� +� �� ;�� <#�� <��2013.

Organised by the African Union Commission, the workshop $�� GMES & Africa Action Plan (GAAP) chapters on marine and coastal areas, water resources management and management of natural resources.

&��>�� and infrastructure – were addressed, with a view to furthering discussions on the implementation of the GMES & Africa process.

GMES & Africa is an initiative aimed at strengthening capacity and developing infrastructure for African users

of Earth observation data in support of environmental policies for sustainable development in Africa and African-+�� >��

The workshop covered the draft African Space Policy, existing Earth observation initiatives in Africa, the European Earth observation programme, as well as the space and in-situ infrastructure and governance cross-cutting issues.

A document, (�� +�*��-/0)12� ��, outlining the basis for future actions for the GMES & Africa process and Earth observation in Africa was also discussed and adopted. It will be submitted at the European _ � >?$��/�� <!�#� �� strengthen cooperation in the framework of the GMES & Africa initiative.

Key African institutions that attended include the national space agencies of Nigeria, Egypt and South Africa, and representatives of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Ministerial Council on Science and Technology (AMCOST), the African Association of Remote Sensing for the Environment (AARSE) and African universities.

South Africa’s delegation included representatives of the Department of Science and Technology as the BRAGMA (Bridging Actions for GMES and Africa) partner, as well as by participants from the South African National Space Agency, the Department of International Relations and +�� +�� $��/�� Q ��Research.

The GMES & Africa��4validation workshop By Nqobile Ngema | Pictures by Itumeleng Kekana

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)��[�� $��?$�� $�� receive training as part of the African Very Long Baseline Interferometry Network (AVN) programme. The AVN project aims to establish Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI)-capable radio telescopes in the SKA African partner countries (Botswana ,Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia and Zambia) through the conversion of old telecommunications antennae into radio telescopes and establishing training facilities with training telescopes.

“The training programme marks the start of a programme to strengthen African technical

capability,” said the Deputy Minister. “Involving the African partner countries in the AVN training programme is a means of

ensuring that Africa is capacitated and ready for hosting the SKA.”

Adv. Masutha said the training project would establish strong collaborative Africa-Europe networks in science and engineering and would deliver practical training and hands-on experience that would enthuse a new generation of scientists and engineers on the continent.

Dr Bernie Fanaroff, Project Director of SKA South Africa, �� $� ��?�`��6��would focus on the conversion of large redundant telecommunication antennae into radio astronomy telescopes, and on training local teams to operate the new observatories, which would in turn equip them with the skills needed to eventually help coordinate and maintain the Ghana Radio Astronomy Project.

Anita Loots, Associate Director of SKA South Africa, said, “Using a miniature version of a radio telescope, they will learn how to design, build, operate and maintain an African �� technical activities of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA). The training will give them technical skills that are widely applicable, even outside radio astronomy.”

She added that the AVN had reached an important milestone with the arrival of the seven Ghanaian technicians. “We hope that up to 70 individuals from the eight SKA partner countries will be trained in the same way over the next few years.”

A unique aspect of the training is what Loots called the “baby telescope”. This “training-wheel” equivalent is basically a satellite television dish equipped with all the key features of a typical, but much larger, AVN radio ��Q��$�� ?�`�/��)�� Telescope (ASTT).

The trainees will build the entire system, starting with the components, and will ultimately use it to monitor radio emissions from our own star, the Sun. This exercise will help them to familiarise themselves with the principles of radio telescope design and operation.

X)�� ?$�� partners to manage SKA telescope stations,” said Loots. X'�� $�participating in SKA activities for Africa as a whole, as well as the sustainability of radio astronomy in the region.”

These and other training-focused operations form part of what can be termed a holistic approach to human capital development for African radio astronomy.

�� "��Ghanaian technical team By Koena Mpjana

12

Inaugural DST-Hitachi Seminar: “Large-scale infrastructure projects:” Global lessons from Hitachi on implementing large-scale infrastructure projects��&�� &��Picture by Asanda Mapolisa

On 12 September 2013 the Department ��(��'��97�(<��the inaugural DST-Hitachi Seminar in the �$�'��$��$�4�(��7�(��?��have a well-established relationship �,��'�� '��%��joint implementation of the DST-Hitachi Scholarship Programme for South African Engineers.

In 2012 this partnership was extended with the signing of a new memorandum of understanding to co-host a series of seminars to create a platform for knowledge sharing in areas such as infrastructure development, energy, water and information and communication technologies.

Hitachi Power Africa is constructing boilers at the Medupi and Kusile Power Stations in Limpopo and Mpumalanga, respectively, as part of Eskom’s large capital projects. When the Director-General, Phil Mjwara, visited Medupi in May this year, Hitachi shared information on the implementation techniques, progress and challenges of delivering such a large-scale project. It is against this background that the seminar was arranged to share this experience with industry and other South African organisations, taking into account the pending implementation of several large-scale infrastructure projects in the country.

Dr Mjwara welcomed the guests and explained the relationship between the DST and Hitachi, based on the Science and Technology Agreement between South Africa and Japan under which the two countries cooperate ��6� �� 6�� research areas. For instance, two DST proposals were funded under the Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) programme (a programme of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST)). The success of these proposals has led to the approval of the Infectious Disease Early Warning System (IDEWS) project, which will be

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The Director-General said the relationship with Japan was in terms of development cooperation. “We are delighted about the development of the power stations,” he said. “I am grateful to Hitachi for their continuing support.” He � �� ~�� $��scholarship opportunities to receive training in Japan under the DST-Hitachi Scholarship Programme.

The two power stations constructed by Eskom are currently the largest South African infrastructure projects. Mr Mark Marais, Project Director, said, “Seven boilers are currently operating in South Africa – something that has never happened before.”

Hitachi has completed their recruitment phase at Medupi, �� E��#!�� with 308 more apprentices in various training programmes ��E��$�� [��<!�#��(�� %%�� E�� a further 500 apprentices.

�� $�� $��success of public infrastructure projects. These include managing the project environment; managing the clash of objectives and interests among stakeholders such as labour, government, contractors and subcontractors; and political will and authority to see projects through.

�� and construction sectors as a primary challenge to the successful completion of large-scale infrastructure projects on time and within budget. He said a key constraint facing the company during the construction of the power stations was a shortage of experienced engineers, construction and fabrication supervisors and artisans. He noted: “Mirror welding is required on projects such as Kusile and Medupi,

��*��!344

13

Early in November, the DST hosted the 3rd Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) with the State Department of the United States of America (USA).

Both countries entered into a Science and Technology (S&T) Agreement in 1995. The S&T Agreement provides for cooperation in agriculture, earth sciences, oceanography, energy, social sciences, natural sciences, health, mathematics and science education, information and communication technology, and materials science, among others.

Speaking at the meeting, the Deputy Director-General: International Cooperation and Resources, Mmboneni Muofhe, described the event as a very special one as it demonstrated how important the partnership between the DST and the US was. “For us this is a partnership that has achieved much, but which also has huge potential to achieve even greater things.”

The US Ambassador to South Africa, Mr Patrick Gaspard, �� borders, cultures and languages. “Scientists are some of the most innovative people on the planet, and creativity �� Q��inspiring to see this strong committee coming together for this important work,” he said.

He added that both South Africa and the United States faced the challenge of inspiring young people to choose �� $��

“I hope that the conversa-tion we have here today will not remain in this chamber, but will spill over into townships across South Africa and into the United States,” he concluded.

The objective of the 3rd JCM was to explore further areas of collaboration. About 50 South Africans and 30 American ��)��in the thematic areas of agriculture/sustainability and energy; health; water ; astronomy and space science; as well as advanced materials. The outcome of each workshop was outlined, indicating areas of potential collaboration.

The JCM acknowledged the positive outcomes of the various discussions between working groups, some of which had the potential to include regional players. Most groups emphasised the importance of human capital development in the process of rolling out their plans.

��5��Meeting with US State DepartmentBy Asanda Mapolisa

but this can only be performed by A-class welders. Mirror �� $�� looking in the mirror.”

He said that timelines had been affected by a culture of striking, often leading to violence and low levels of productivity.

Something that emerged from the seminar was that Hitachi’s ethos was not only about business and making � �� and communities. They have a Skills Development Programme which is based on merSETA’s Accelerated Artisan Training Programme (merSETA is one of the 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities), which aims to place and structure the development of competent apprentices over an 80-week period. In addition, they

have an Enterprise Development Programme aimed at funding small businesses, as well as a Corporate Social Investments (CSI) Programme, through which they give back to the communities. The CSI Programme focuses on awarding bursaries to undergraduate and postgraduate engineering students.

Hitachi explained that it plans to use its R1,6 billion manufacturing facilities at Medupi and Kusile for Eskom’s �� >�� +��~�

)�� [/)>��/� �� $�� $�� <!�#��The DST will collate the important lessons learned by Hitachi to share with other government departments and stakeholders.

14

Science Slam shows entertaining way to communicate science By Nqobile Ngema

The Deputy Minister attended the German-South Africa Science Slam at the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre �`�� "�� /��Africa.

A “science slam” is a science communication event similar to a “poetry slam”, at which poets read or recite original work. These performances are then judged on a numeric scale by previously selected members of the audience. In a �� $�� disciplines present their topics to an audience that rates �� $�� content and communication and performance skills.

Expressing his appreciation of the concept, the Deputy Minister said that this was an innovative way to introduce young learners to the world of science. He added that it was very impressive to see young scientists translating �� language.

The Science Slam proved to be one of the most exciting events hosted under the umbrella of German Weeks 2013, and was attended mostly by local high school learners. It was addressed by the Minister for Economic and Global Affairs of the German Embassy, Mr Andreas Künne, who � �� out more about science and also how they could study in Germany.

Prior to the competition, the slammers attended a workshop where they were trained by professionals from the performing arts and by PhD student, Thakane Ntholi, who won the slam held at the closing of the German-South African Year of Science in Berlin early this year.

This time Dr Heinrich Badenhorst, a researcher at the University of Pretoria, won the competition for his description of research on carbon and graphite materials, which can be used for solar energy capture and storage.

In second place was Mr John Geoffrey Woodland, a PhD student at the University of Cape Town, whose research may lead to new forms of treatment of diseases such as malaria.

A German student from the University of the Witwatersrand, Ms Nora Marie Weyer, came third. Dressed

as an aardvark (African antbear), her presentation focused on the impact of climate change on the eco-physiology of aardvarks in the Kalahari.

Dr Mpfareleni Rejoyce Gavhi was next. Her presentation was on a method for generating smooth curves and surfaces, which enabled learners to understand how characters in animation movies like Finding Nemo are formed to such near perfection.

Sandile Ngcobo, a PhD student from the University of (��>`�� digital laser, the latest breakthrough at the CSIR.

A young German scientist from the University of Stuttgart, working with the University of Johannesburg, Ms Elena Antoni, explained how she was conducting an economic feasibility study in Gauteng on bio-waste to energy transformation.

Deputy Minister Masutha took the opportunity to “slam” about Braille; as a partially blind person he uses Braille to read. “I enjoy reading in the dark under my warm blankets; I don’t need electricity to read,” he said.

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15

Department awards young talent with funding to study science��,��,��+��8�� '��%��[��],��#�$�'�� received Department of Science and Technology special awards. The awards are cash incentives ��$��$�� '��' � ��'�� '��or diploma at any of the public universities in the country.

More than 800 participants from 30 regions gathered at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre from 26 to 28 September 2013 to participate in the biggest science expo in the country.

A total of 652 projects competed in 25 categories, including agricultural sciences, earth sciences, energy, engineering, innovation and technology, mathematical sciences and social and psychological sciences. The projects were the work of individuals or pairs and detailed the outcomes of research, data gathering and processing and/or experimentation done over days, weeks or even months.

Participants exhibited their research project results on ��)��6��for scrutiny by the judges. Participants were interviewed by various judges over a period of two days, and various awards were made. The organisers awarded gold, silver

Winners: Balasi Mini and Esuthu Mkonyana (Mvenyane Senior Secondary, Mthatha). Topic: Wave power generation in the category �0�� 82�� 9��

Winner: Edwin Molusi (St Boniface School, Kimberley)Topic: Effect of different fruits on potential difference generated in the category �0�� 82�� 9��

Winners: Phindulo Pinky Tshivhilinge and Rotondwa Mudimeli (Mbilwi Secondary, Vhembe). Topic: The magic from plastics in category �0�� 82�� 9��

Winner: Dylan van Deventer (Cornwall Hill College, Northern Gauteng). Topic: Eco can biodegradable cool drink can in the category �0�� /��8��

Winner: Gerhard Francois Maré (Overkruin Hoërskool, Northern Gauteng). Topic: The microwave oven as a learning aid in secondary school science in the category �)��)��

16

Dr Zeblon Vilakazi, Director of iThemba LABS in Cape Town, has been appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor : Research and Postgraduate Student Affairs at the University �$��'�� $$��$�� <!�#�

Dr Vilakazi headed iThemba LABS over the last eight years and has also served as Group Executive for Research and Development at the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa).

He obtained his PhD from Wits in 1988 and an NRF-funded postdoctoral fellowship at the European Centre for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland. Q ��"""�� high-energy physics research group at the University of Cape Town, focusing on the development of the High-level Trigger for the CERN-ALICE (A Large Ion Collider Experiment) experiment at the Large Hadron Collider.

Dr Vilakazi was also chair of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Standing Advisory Committee on Nuclear Applications from 2009 to 2011 and was a visiting scientist at the Atomic Energy Commission and Alternative Energy (CEA) in Saclay, France. He holds memberships of the Programme Advisory Committee for Nuclear Physics at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Russia; the

International Union of Pure and Applied Physics Working Group for Nuclear Physics; and the Academy of Sciences of South Africa.

Said Dr Albert van Jaarsveld, CEO of the National Research Foundation: “The NRF is delighted and fully supportive of the appointment of Dr Vilakazi at Wits. We are encouraged that scientists of his calibre are called upon to make a contribution to the higher education system. In the period that Dr Vilakazi has been Managing Director of iThemba LABS, research outputs have shown strong growth, with a citation intensity that is on a par with similar research facilities worldwide. He has overseen the development of iThemba LABS into a world-class nuclear research and medicine facility. Naturally, it is a loss for us at the NRF and iThemba Labs, but a very positive and healthy development for the science system as a whole. We look forward to continuing our relationship with him well into the future and wish him well in his endeavours.”

��6��+��#��8�� +��9��By Palesa Mokoena

and bronze medals in each of the 25 categories. The top 15 to 20 projects will be representing South Africa at various international competitions in the next 12 months.

In addition to the main awards, various companies, universities and the DST made special awards according to their own criteria.

Minister Hanekom could not resist attending this year, despite other pressing engagements. He squeezed in a “short” two-hour walkabout among the projects on Thursday 26 September in order to see for himself the latest ideas and projects and to meet the young scientists.

[�� $�� ceremony on Saturday 28 September. He delivered the

keynote address to an audience of participants, parents, teachers, adjudicators, volunteers and representatives of various sponsors. He also had an opportunity to interact with the participants.

The Department’s special awards were adjudicated by a team of staff members from various units, namely Kogi Iyer (Earth Systems Science), Mandy Mtyelwa (Hydrogen and Energy), Elmary Buis (Technology for Sustainable ��/��*)�� &�� (��Selepe and Bersan Lesch (Science and Youth). Ntombizini Manana from the National Research Foundation also assisted in the Environmental Management category.

Dr Zeblon Vilakazi

17

This year, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Innovation Skills Development (ISD) unit of the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) joined as partners to support the HIP2B² 3M Innovation Challenge, which enabled it to extend into two new provinces – the Eastern Cape and Limpopo – further broadening its reach into rural areas.

The initiative was implemented to uplift historically disadvantaged schools around South Africa through the annual Innovation Challenge, in association with the ISD of TIA, to invent and develop a product that can address real problems that affect learners, their families and their community on a daily basis, according to HIP2B² Managing Director, Cathryn Payne.

This year’s winning innovation product was the “Pen Fan” from Limpopo Tshivhase Secondary School in )�� 6��$�X��and affordable”.

Two Limpopo learners, Awelani Rasiuba and Fulufhelani Mashapapha, were awarded the title “South Africa’s Top Young Innovators 2013” in the second annual HIP2B² ~��Q �� +�� )�� function at the 3M headquarters in Johannesburg, where they presented their idea for the Pen Fan in front of an audience. They received R10 000 from Huge Telecom for science equipment for their school, as well as R3 000 cash prizes each.

“This invention, the Pen Fan, provides a solution to the real problem of humidity in overcrowded small classrooms. By activating the fan, attached to a functional pen, learners

are able to cool themselves down during lessons, which will improve concentration. Limpopo has very hot weather conditions,” said Cathryn Payne. She added that getting �� their goal. “There is no doubt that this was an eye-opener $�� the preceding regional rounds.”

X�$�� $� �$��circumstances, which with encouragement, guidance and a few tools can become workable solutions,” said Amil de Moura, Huge Telecom Marketing Director. “While the odds these learners are up against every day just to successfully get through high school are staggering, it was inspiring to see how they immediately interpreted the brief and made it applicable to their own lives.”

?�� &��$�� $��Western Cape, Gauteng, the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

)�� from HIP2B2, 3M and TIA, as well as other industry �� )��selections were based on how well the teams used science, technology, engineering and maths-related-skills in the application of their product, as well as the product’s commercial viability as a practical solution to a real-life problem.

Sethu Siwa and Ntandaso Mati from the Western Cape took second place, each receiving a R2 000 cash prize, and Teboho Gladwell and Masimbonge Tibane from Gauteng came third, each receiving a R1 000 cash prize.

.��"��“South Africa’s Top Young Innovators 2013” competition By Koena Mpjana

18

��; ��Primary School handed to the community By Asanda MapolisaPicture by Nqobile Ngema

� ��<!�~�� $�� over the Mdavuza Senior Primary School in the Qumbu Educational District to the local community during a public participation programme in Libode, Eastern Cape.

The handover forms part of the �:��*� ��'�campaign, which began in July this year.

The Mdavuza Senior Primary School is one of the schools built through the Accelerated Schools Infrastructure Delivery Initiative (ASIDI), an extension of the broader Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Commission (PICC), led by the President.

The campaign is aimed at addressing infrastructure backlogs in the country, in particular inappropriate, unsafe and mud schools.

Addressing the community, Minister Hanekom emphasised that, through such measures, South Africa was much better �� $��""#��X'�� a country from 20 years ago. It is the culmination of our efforts that have made sure that the children of Khalandoda have access to quality basic education. Today we bid farewell to the old structures that were built in 1977 and welcome the new Mdavuza Senior Primary School.”

He encouraged the community to take care of the school $�� X)��to be protected and maintained,” he added.

The MEC for Education in the Eastern Cape, Mandla Makupula, said the people of Qumbu would protect the school as it was their heritage. “Education is the tool that improves everything from one generation to another,” he said.

Welcoming what the government was doing, the school governing body chair, Mr Njova, said having a proper school in the community was a dream come true.

The principal, Ms VN Seku, was overjoyed, as ever since she started working there in late 1970s the school had had no water or electricity.

Over and above new classrooms, the school features a multi-media centre, a library, a science laboratory and a computer laboratory.

Ethics versus Morality The theme for the Department’s Anti-corruption Month and Day (from 15 November to 15 December 2013) is “Ethical intelligence”. This article is based on an extract from the book 0�� +�� (© Bruce Weinstein, ��[�� $�� toughest ethical dilemmas at work and beyond.

The extract focuses on the question that many people ask themselves: “Is there a difference between morality and ethics?”

Not historically. In fact, the word “morality” comes from moralis, a Latin word that Cicero coined as a translation of the Greek word ethikos, which is the origin of the term

“ethics”. Thus “morality” is to “ethics” what the French “chapeau” is to “hat”, or the Spanish “caliente” is to “hot”.

It is true that many, perhaps most, people make a distinction between morality and ethics, but the problem is that no two people seem to agree about what that distinction ��)�� X[��you believe there is a difference between ethics and morality? If so, what is that difference?” You are likely to get responses like these:

�� {�� about personal beliefs.

�� {�� $�� morality is a religious phenomenon.

�� {��6�� 6��judgments are relative and subjective.

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19

Preventing drowsinessDriving on long journeys is often more hazardous than negotiating busy city streets. With little to do, boredom sets in, which, in turn, leads to drowsiness.

Symptoms to watch out for are yawning, heavy eyelids and spasmodic jerks of the body. The following tips could help prevent such symptoms before your vehicle wanders off the road:

�� /�� 6�� preferable to large meals.

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stretch your legs. �� { ��E�� { ��

��Together with darkness and rainy conditions, other road users may be regarded as one of the commonest hazards. Learn to recognise potentially dangerous drivers and keep clear of them.

No matter how severely you may be provoked, keep your temper and resist the temptation to retaliate – it may result in anything from a collision to a shooting match.

Be especially wary when driving near any of the following:

�� ? �� $� �� is limited, such as a fully laden bakkie with no side mirrors.

�� ?��

�� ?�� may be distracted.

�� ?�� may be habitually careless.

�� [�� pass – slow down and let them get far ahead.

Travelling with childrenDriving very soon becomes tedious for children, so a long trip should be planned ahead to include rest stops, toys, games and refreshments.

The frequency of stops along the way may depend on the ages and dispositions of the young passengers, as well as the availability of shade and other facilities. When you stop, allow the children to work off some of their energy by running around and playing in a safe place. Although there will inevitably be some unscheduled stops for minor emergencies, try to determine safe and suitable stopping places in advance, such as garages and restaurants with play areas.

��_Safe driving requires the driver to be fully aware of what other road users, including pedestrians, are doing, and to anticipate what they are likely to do. When a potentially dangerous situation arises, the driver must be able to cope with it readily, and without endangering either lives or property.

Driving techniques, whether good or bad, become a matter of routine. Inexperienced drivers should try to develop the correct techniques, while it may be useful for veterans to check their driving habits.

Tips for holiday driving

Not only do individuals differ about what the distinction between the concepts is; they also differ about how to �� {�� difference between ethics and morality may differ over ��

��Y��)�� $�� ;�� be, because just about everyone understands that both ethics and morality have to do with identifying right

conduct and good character. To keep everyone on the same page and to honour the linguistic history of these two noble concepts, it is much better to treat ethical and moral as synonymous.

All DST staff are encouraged to read the book and adopt the principles to guide their day-to-day actions.

0�� * ��@��'/��'�� **� ��

20

The previous articles on business continuity management (BCM) explained what BCM was, covered some of the current trends and gave a high-level overview of the BCM life cycle. This article provides a high-level overview of BCM policy and programme management.

��5�,��The BCM policy of an organisation is the key document that sets out the scope and governance of the BCM ��Q�� and therefore provides the framework around which the BCM programme is designed and built. The policy is owned by top management, demonstrating their support for BCM. Organisation and governance are essential prerequisites for developing a successful BCM programme. The purpose of issuing a policy statement is to communicate to interested parties the principles that the organisation adheres to. As its primary purpose is communication, it should be short, clear, precise and to the point.

In articulating the scope, the policy must document what the BCM programme is designed to protect and the maximum extent of damage, loss or interruption that the organisation could realistically bear. The purpose of setting the scope is to ensure clarity regarding which areas of the organisation are covered by the BCM programme; �� $� �� fall within the programme, which must be adequately ��

The adoption of formal standards and guidelines to guide the BCM programme should also be documented in the policy. Management systems provide a formalised method of ensuring that the BCM programme is implemented and managed to a recognised standard. When a formal management system has been implemented, it is referred to as a Business Continuity Management System.

��5�,��'��'��Programme management is at the centre of the BCM process and it establishes the approach to business continuity. The participation of top management is key to ensuring that the BCM process is correctly introduced, adequately supported and established as part of the organisation’s culture.

� �� Policy and Programme Management by Enterprise Risk Management

Programme management includes three steps:�� '��'��,��%��9'��<� A successful BCM programme is dependent on

�� $� �� and the associated responsibilities, behaviours and authorities to manage the programme and process throughout the organisation. This will have been established in the BCM policy. The purpose of assigning roles and responsibilities is to ensure that the tasks required to implement and maintain the programme are allocated �� performance can be monitored.

�� Project management When undertaking an initial implementation of

a BCM programme in an organisation, project management techniques can be adopted. This paves the way to programme management once the key elements are in place. However, this remains a useful discipline for elements of a BCM programme that have clear deliverables (for example, in rolling out an awareness campaign across the organisation).

�� 5�,��'�� Once implemented, the BCM programme needs

to be managed in a cycle of continual improvement if it is to be effective. The programme will be managed within the framework and according to the principles contained in the organisation’s BCM policy document.

21

Department’s secretaries treated �� 9�� By Nqobile Ngema | Pictures by Nqobile Ngema

The Special Programmes unit treated all of the Department’s secretaries to a special event on 20 September to acknowledge and honour them for the important work that they do.

The occasion was National Secretaries Day, which is held annually to acknowledge the work done by secretaries throughout the country. The secretaries, including administrative staff, were treated to an exotic day at Magalies Manor in Magaliesburg. The theme was Hawaiian culture, and relaxation was the order of the day.

Naledi Modibedi, the Chief Director: Human Resources, expressed her pleasure at celebrating the Department’s “core service providers”: “The work done by secretaries is phenomenal; they make sure that the Department is functional at all times.”

National Secretaries Day originated in 1952 to recognise secretaries’ work and to promote the values and importance of administrative assistants. The objectives are to recognise the people upon whose skills, loyalty, and �$�� attention, through favourable publicity, to the tremendous potential of this career.

Three DST employees gave testimony to what it means to be a secretary. Busi Mthethwa, Personal Assistant to Thomas Auf der Heyde, the Deputy Director-General: Human Capital and Knowledge Systems, said the work meant respecting what you do, the environment and yourself as an employee.

“It is very important to know what you are doing and do it to the best of your abilities, and to familiarise yourself with all the relevant technologies and programmes offered. Lastly, people need to read and study so that they can grow as individuals.”

Sarah Mokoena, a food services assistant, said, “I do more than just making sure that the kitchen is clean and dishes are washed; I also help with administrative duties when needed. My goal is to one day become a secretary in the Department. I know if I’m given the opportunity, I can do the job very well.”

Theresa Lamprecht, a receptionist at the front desk, said: “I ��6��$��when dealing with people from outside the DST. When people come to the DST to attend meetings, often we are not aware of the meetings, which can be very challenging.”

Hector Motau, a well-known motivational speaker, was invited as a guest speaker. The former radio presenter talked about how to stay motivated in the midst of jealousy, misperception and low self-esteem in the workplace.

“It is important to know your journey and to revisit your purpose as an individual by adding higher meaning to your life and setting goals,” he said, adding that ��$>�� $>�� the achievement of one’s goals were some of the things that one could do to grow.

Pontsho Manzi, an image consultant, gave tips on how to dress appropriately and look professional at work.

22

7 �� 8/�5��/�'��/ ��'��?��/�?��/��9��* �� *�� A�/�0��@��/�C��/��/��/��

D��' ��8/ ��/�'��/�D��C��/�)� �?��

&Rewards RecognitionThe team that assisted with the Global Forum on Innovation and Technology ��,��$��, ��*�� '��the Department for their hard work.

8��*&<��$=By Itumeleng Kekana

23

)�� $�� {��atmosphere and exploding, raining down a shockwave �$�� $�� $�� been discovered by a team of South African scientists and �� )�� at a public lecture.

)�� proof of a comet striking Earth millions of years ago, but it could also help us, in the future, to unlock the secrets of the formation of our solar system.

“Comets always visit our skies – they’re like dirty snowballs of ice mixed with dust – but never before in history has material from a comet ever been found on Earth,” said Prof. David Block, Director of the Anglo American Cosmic Dust Laboratory of the University of the Witwatersrand.

The comet entered Earth’s atmosphere above Egypt about 28 million years ago. As it entered the atmosphere, it exploded, heating up the sand beneath it to a temperature of about 2 000 degrees Celsius, resulting in the formation of a huge amount of yellow silica glass that lies scattered over a 6 000 square kilometre area in the Sahara. ?�� $�� jewellers, is found in Tutankhamun’s brooch with its striking yellow-brown scarab.

The research, which will be published in 0� �� Science Letters, was conducted by a collaboration of geoscientists, physicists and astronomers, including Prof. Block, lead author Prof. Jan Kramers of the University of Johannesburg, Dr Marco Andreoli of the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation, and Prof. Chris Harris of the University of Cape Town.

At the centre of this team’s attention was a mysterious black pebble found years earlier by an Egyptian geologist in the silica glass area. After conducting highly sophisticated chemical analyses on this pebble, the authors came to the �� known specimen of a comet nucleus, rather than simply an unusual type of meteorite.

Prof. Kramers described this as a moment of career-�� XQ�� $� �� when you eliminate all other options and come to the realisation of what it must be,” he said.

The impact of the explosion also produced microscopic diamonds. “Diamonds are produced from carbon-bearing material. Normally they form deep in the earth, where the pressure is high, but you can also generate very high pressure with shock. Part of the comet impacted and the shock of the impact produced the diamonds,” said Prof. Kramers.

The team have named the diamond-bearing pebble X��V�� $� ��>� �� $��mathematician, astronomer and philosopher, Hypatia of Alexandria.

Comet material is very elusive. Comet fragments have not been found on Earth before, except as microscopic dust particles in the upper atmosphere and some carbon-rich dust in the Antarctic ice. Space agencies have gone to great lengths to secure small amounts of pristine comet matter.

“NASA and ESA [the European Space Agency] spend billions of dollars collecting a few micrograms of comet material and bringing it back to Earth, and now we’ve got a radical new approach to studying this material – without spending billions of dollars collecting it,” says Prof. Kramers.

The study of Hypatia has grown into an international collaborative research programme, coordinated by Dr Andreoli, which involves a growing number of scientists drawn from a variety of disciplines. Dr Mario Di Martino of Turin’s Astrophysical Observatory has led several expeditions to the desert glass area.

Prof. Block said, “Comets contain the very secrets to unlocking the formation of our solar system, and this discovery gives us an unprecedented opportunity to study �� V

First ever evidence of a comet striking Earth

24

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Financial Management��$��'��[1 November 2013

��!�*��>.$�!&!5$��,�� ̀5$��,��18 July 2013

��&?*)*&�*��&$�*&�7�,$��5��@�'��[1 November 2013

��$.!�$�$'!�$Information TechnologyAssistant Director: IT Helpdesk Support Specialist1 November 2013

��$�!�*(��(8$&*Human ResourceAssistant Director: Organisational Development1 November 2013

�)�$&�.$)!(>��Deputy Director: Secretariat7Q��1 December 2013

��$�.!�$+!.5�*&��$��Director: Media Liaison1 December 2013

��!&��.$�$Development PartnershipsDeputy Director: Development Partnerships1 September 2013

�).*?$)$�$.�(�Human Resource Sourcing ManagementHuman Resource Practitioner9 September 2013

��$��>!�!��(>$�.$��Senior Administrator1 September 2013

�)*'>)$!�'>$.$?$.$Human SettlementDeputy Director: Sustainable Human Settlement1 October 2013

�)�!?!��&��*6@.@Senior State AccountantFinance1 October 2013

��!&$��.$.$�>�(�*��Finance1 October 2013

��)�&��$��'$High End SkillsSenior Secretary: High End Skills1 November 2013

��'@.$&*)$(��$.*Human ResourcesSenior Secretary: Human Resources1 November 2013

New appointmentsBy Koena Mpjana

25

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B��$��[��4�6��$�%�� $�� $��,��are your leisure activities?

I am from the beautiful City of Cape Town, born and raised in the suburbs of Athlone. I have a BCom Honours in Information Systems from the University �$��'�� +�� +�� 6��$��+��Executive Board Company.

I spent 13 years in the South African National Defence Force, 12 years of which in the South African Navy at various stations in South Africa, including the naval ship, SAS Protea, as a cryptographer. I was trained in Communication Intelligence and IT and spent the last seven years at the Maritime Information Technology unit as a Help Desk Manager and Project Coordinator.

I enjoy the outdoors and camping.

What is your role in the Department of Science and Technology and when did you start?

I started in the Ministry on 1 June 2013 as an Assistant Administrative Secretary.

What are your duties and what does your position entail?

My functions include primarily assisting the Administrative Secretary with the quality control of submissions to the Minister and acting as liaison between the Presidency and the Ministry. The Administrative group is responsible for the timeous delivery of quality correspondence from the Ministry, internally and externally.

We are also responsible for managing strategic risk in the Ministry and providing the Minister with administrative support.

6��$��[��'��'��%�$��$��,��7�,��z

Q�� $� �� $��$�� the work load in the Ministry is immense and demanding. As I am new to the Department, I still have much to learn.

science NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013& technology OF ACCESS TO INFORMATION... · 2017. 3. 26. ·...

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