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
SOCIETAL PLATFORMS
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 aims to launch its Professional Development Accelerator initiative and mentorship programme within the first three years of SAPRI’s establishment – in order to build and retain transformed skill sets. In this time, SAPRI also aims to begin both top-down and bottom-up approaches to encourage and support polar sciences in historically black universities.
SAPRI Mentorship Programme
The South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI) is planning to establish a mentorship programme in collaboration with The Association of Polar Early Career Scientists South Africa (APECS SA) and The South African Network for Coastal and Oceanic Research (SANCOR).
To enable us to design a useful and impactful programme, please take a moment to complete the SAPRI Mentorship Programme Needs Assessment.
The mentorship programme will be aimed at postgraduate students and/or ECRs in polar and offshore marine research.
SAPRI Code of Conduct
SAPRI is committed to ensuring equality, diversity and inclusivity in the marine and polar research environment.
SAPRI is currently developing a Code of Conduct to help ensure a safe and inclusive space for the South African marine and polar community. The Code of Conduct is still in development and will be adapted from the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) Code of Conduct. Once available, it will be shared here.
FEATURED NEWS
Farewell to Anche Louw
Featured Image: Anche on Marion Island Dear Colleagues and Friends, It is with a blend of emotions that I write to bid farewell to the esteemed marine and Antarctic community as I transition into a new chapter of my career within the agricultural sector. My journey...
Jobs Alert: Marion Island
Applications open for: Overwintering Birder Overwintering Killer Whaler Overwintering Sealer (2x positions) The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research...
Obituary: Dr Precious Thembumuzi Mahlalela
It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Dr Precious Thembumuzi Mahlalela. Dr Mahlalela, Research Coordinator of the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI) LTO-Ocean Integrated Facility, passed away on 28 November 2023 after a...