Science Forum South Africa (SFSA) 2025 concluded on 28 November 2025, marking a decade since its inception and underscoring the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation’s (DSTI) deepened commitment to positioning science, technology and innovation at the core of government, education, industry and society.
The Forum serves as a large, open, public platform for debating the science and society interface. The 2025 theme was Igniting Conversations about Science – Placing Science, Technology and Innovation at the Centre of Government, Education, Industry and Society.
SAPRI engaging visitors at the Science Forum South Africa 2025
As SAPRI, we were proud to exhibit at the 10th anniversary of the SFSA at the CSIR International Convention Centre from 24 to 28 November 2025, where our exhibition stand became a vibrant hub for curiosity, learning, and public engagement. The event brought together researchers, organisations, students, and members of the civil society, all eager to explore the latest developments in science and innovation, and SAPRI was proud to be part of these conversations.
The LTO-Land Research Coordinator, Abuyiselwe Nguna, exhibiting for the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) delegates at the Science Forum South Africa 2025.
Over the course of the event, we engaged with more than 900 attendees, reflecting the strong public interest in South Africa’s polar and marine research efforts. Our exhibition created an engaging experience that showcased South Africa’s role in polar and marine research. Two features stood out as clear favourites among visitors: the iconic pumpkin boots worn on Antarctic expeditions, and the virtual reality (VR) experience, which transported guests into remote areas where marine and polar scientists work.
Our Engagement Officer, Kelebogile Morwa Mandi Mogotsi (Kelly), engaging with delegates from Congo at the SFSA, sharing insights about SAPRI’s work.
For many visitors, touching the pumpkin boots or exploring the VR headsets offered their first real insight into life and research in the polar regions. These interactive elements not only attracted visitors but also made the SAPRI stand memorable and engaging.
Our Communications and Engagement Intern, Asisipo Mboneli, engaging with learners at the Science Forum South Africa, including a student experiencing Marion island through the VR headsets for the first time.
SAPRI made a strong impact at SFSA by making polar research more accessible and easy to understand through conversations, demonstrations, and interactive displays. Visitors appreciated the approachable team and the clear explanations of why polar science matters for climate change and environmental monitoring. What people loved most was how SAPRI brought the polar world closer to home, helping them see the importance of research on Marion Island, Antarctica, and the technology behind polar missions.
The SAPRI team engaging with educators and delegates from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation at the Science Forum South Africa 2025.
We are proud to have supported our partner, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, in yet another successful Science Forum South Africa, while spreading awareness of the opportunities available in the fields of marine and polar research in South Africa.
Text supplied by Asisipo Mboneli and Kelebogile Morwa Mandi Mogotsi (Kelly). Photos by Asisipo Mboneli, Kelebogile Morwa Mandi Mogotsi (Kelly) and Abuyiselwe Nguna.
Rabia Mathakutha, South African Polar Research Infrastructure, 24 December 2025
