SOCIETY
COMMUNICATION, AWARENESS & EDUCATION
The SAPRI Engagement Strategy is based on the fourth pillar of SAPRI – where the aim is to build capacity in marine and polar research for transformation and societal awareness.
This pillar focuses on one of the founding principles of SAPRI, which is to ensure that the investment in new infrastructures – and the utilisation of existing infrastructures – translates into the generation of science for the benefit of society.
4 Main Pillars of SAPRI
Marine and polar research coordination and logistics
Sustainability of long-term marine and polar observations
New infrastructures, innovation and engineering
Capacity building in marine and polar research for transformation and societal awareness
TRANSFORMATION
Transformation is a key driver considered in all actions of SAPRI. It is immediately evident that an urgent change needs to be made within the marine and polar research community not just in terms of diversity of scientists but from an institutional perspective.
SAPRI is committed to having a diverse staff complement and launched its Professional Development Accelerator initiative in 2023, and is establishing a mentorship programme in 2025 – initiatives to build and retain transformed skill sets. SAPRI is working to implement both top-down and bottom-up approaches to encourage and support marine and polar research in underrepresented tertiary education institutions.
MENTORSHIP PROGRAMME
The mentorship programme is aimed at postgraduate students and/or ECRs in polar and offshore marine research.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, INCLUSIVITY
SAPRI is committed to ensuring equality, diversity and inclusivity in the marine and polar research environment.
FEATURED NEWS
SAPRI team departs for Marion Island annual relief voyage
The South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI) team has commenced its journey to Marion Island as part of the annual relief voyage, marking the beginning of another important field season in support of South Africa's long-term polar and sub-Antarctic research...
Celebrating National Science Month: Science, Technology and Innovation are for everyone
July 2026 marked a significant milestone for public engagement with science in South Africa as the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, officially elevated National Science Week into a month-long National Science Month (NSM),...
SAPRI receives Certificate of Excellence at the launch of the inaugural National Science Month
The South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI) was honoured to receive the Certificate of Excellent Exhibition in recognition of its exhibition and contribution to the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation's (DSTI) inaugural National Science Month...