Parliamentary Committee Visits NRF Astronomy Facilities

As part of its ongoing oversight programme, the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee (PPC) on Science, Technology and Innovation, in collaboration with the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), recently conducted site visits to the National Research Foundation’s South African Astronomical Observatory (NRF-SAAO) in Sutherland and the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRF-SARAO) in Carnarvon between 24 and 28 February 2025.

The visits were part of a formal programme that commenced on 11 February at the two observatories’ offices in Cape Town. PPC members received a comprehensive briefing on the overall progress of astronomy in South Africa as well as the impact of NRF-SAAO and NRF-SARAO in the advancement of the country’s scientific research and innovation. This time, the PPC members were taken on guided tours of the respective world-class national facilities. Additionally, there were presentations which highlighted the research facilities’ achievements, operational challenges, and strategic initiatives. The presentations also showcased how various projects contributed to the socio-economic development of the local communities within which the NRF operates.

On 24 and 25 February at the NRF-SAAO, the committee explored South Africa’s premier optical astronomy research facility which houses, among others, the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), the largest single optical telescope in the Southern Hemisphere. NRF-SAAO has remained at the forefront of astronomical discoveries over the years and continues to contribute significantly to the enhancement of global astronomical research.

During the two-day visit, committee members were briefed about the observatory’s recent discoveries, technological advancements, and capacity-building efforts. Discussions also centred around how it contributes to human capital development by training astronomers, engineers, and technicians to foster the country’s scientific leadership on the global stage.

From the 26 – 27 February, the PPC visited NRF-SARAO where they watched presentations on some of the groundbreaking scientific results already produced by the MeerKAT radio telescope, as well as an update on SA’s participation in the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project. The SKA is one of the most ambitious global scientific collaborations, significantly advancing our understanding of the universe. The delegation was also informed of the project’s impact on international collaboration, local socio-economic development, and the advancement of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.

Stakeholder engagement

Other notable key features of the visits included the PPC’s interaction with both NRF-SAAO and NRF-SARAO’s key stakeholders. In Sutherland they were taken to the Sutherland Community Centre to interact with SAAO/SALT beneficiaries and stakeholders including school learners, community members and the Sutherland Astro-tourism Association. In Carnarvon they interacted with community groups such as local SMMEs, Robotics team and visited the local Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centre, Old Age Home and the Artisan Training Centre that are supported by NRF-SARAO.

In his address to the PPC members, NRF CEO, Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo said, “Your visit is not merely an oversight exercise, it is a testament to the critical role that science, technology and innovation play in shaping the future of our nation and the world. Your support is vital to ensuring the long-term success of the work of the NRF and your continued investment in research, skills development, and infrastructure is a necessity.”

His sentiment was echoed by the Acting Director-General of the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Ms Gugulethu Zwane who said “The return on investment in astronomical research and infrastructure, is encouraging. The Astro-Tourism Strategy, which was recently presented to Parliament’s portfolio committees on Science, Technology and Innovation and Tourism, seeks to position South Africa as a world-class astro-tourism destination.”

In the end, the PPC reaffirmed its commitment to continue discussions around the need for sustained Government support and funding mechanisms to ensure the continued success of both facilities. Its members emphasised the importance of continued investment in research infrastructure, skills development, and public-private partnerships to strengthen South Africa’s position as a leader in global astronomy.

Chairperson of the committee, Ms Tsakani Goodness Shiviti commended the NRF-SAAO and NRF-SARAO teams for their dedication to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation. She said, “The visit underscores the critical role that science and technology play in driving economic growth and national development and to further reinforce the importance of Governmental oversight and strategic planning in these sectors.”