Image: Poster presentation by Mr Happy Vilakazi at SAIP 2026 under the Nuclear, Particle and Radiation Physics’ track

The NRF-SAASTA recently celebrated a double milestone of academic excellence and public science engagement. Two dedicated colleagues from the Public Engagement Platforms (PEP) unit, Mr Happy Vilakazi and Mr Gerald Maluleke, actively participated in the prestigious 70th Annual South African Institute for Physics (SAIP) Conference, hosted by the University of the Western Cape (UWC) from 6 to 10 July 2026.

Their participation not only highlights NRF-SAASTA’s commitment to cutting-edge scientific research but also aligns with the country’s rollout of the inaugural National Science Month (NSM) this July.

The flagship SAIP conference brought together top-tier researchers, educators and students under the theme, “Physics in the Fourth Industrial Revolution: Towards a Sustainable and Inclusive Future.” Demonstrating that NRF-SAASTA’s workforce consists of active contributors to the scientific community, both Vilakazi and Maluleke stepped up to share their breakthrough research in the domain of nuclear physics.

Mr Happy Vilakazi (Professional Officer: Public Engagement Platforms) presented a compelling poster detailing his ongoing PhD work, titled “Study of Nuclear Reactions Induced by Weakly-bound Projectile.” His research delves into complex reaction mechanisms, contributing vital data toward understanding fundamental nuclear structures.

Mr Gerald Maluleke (Liaison Officer: Public Engagement Platforms) delivered an insightful oral presentation based on a portion of his Master’s dissertation. Speaking on the topic, “Systematic Investigation of Nucleon-Nucleon Interactions in Oxygen-16 Induced Reactions,” Maluleke’s presentation was highly regarded for its precision and implications for heavy-ion reaction dynamics.

The participation of Mr Vilakazi and Mr Maluleke highlights a vital institutional strength: the synergy between active scientific research and science communication.

As drivers of the Public Engagement Platforms at NRF-SAASTA, both colleagues are responsible for translating complex scientific concepts for the general public. By presenting their own high-level research at SAIP 2026, they exemplify the exact dual identity that modern science requires, being exceptional scientists who are equally passionate about making science accessible.

Their presence on the academic stage enhances NRF-SAASTA’s institutional credibility, proving that those who spearhead public engagement are themselves rooted deeply in the scientific method.

The timing of SAIP 2026 could not have been more perfect. July marks South Africa’s transition into its first-ever National Science Month (NSM), an expanded initiative spearheaded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and coordinated by NRF-SAASTA. Run under the national theme, “Science, Technology and Innovation Are for Everyone,” NSM aims to foster a science-literate society and inspire the next generation of innovators.

By contributing to the pinnacle of South Africa’s physics discourse during the launch month of NSM, Mr Vilakazi and Mr Maluleke embodied the campaign’s core ethos. They serve as powerful, relatable role models for young South Africans. Their achievements demonstrate to aspiring learners that careers in advanced STEM fields are attainable, and that South African researchers are driving global conversations in nuclear science.

NRF-SAASTA congratulates Mr Happy Vilakazi and Mr Gerald Maluleke for their stellar representation at SAIP 2026. Their dedication continues to elevate the profile of the organisation as a beacon of both research excellence and societal empowerment.