Working Groups

The Southern Africa Physics Network (SAPhysNet) currently has five working groups that were established to guide the development and launch of the network. These working groups are intended to ensure that the network develops through a consultative, inclusive, and sustainable process.

Working Group 1: Governance and Constitution Drafting

This working group is responsible for developing the institutional and governance framework of SAPhysNet. Its role includes:

  • Drafting the constitution and governance structures.
  • Defining membership models, leadership structures, and operational procedures.
  • Ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical governance.
  • Aligning the network with regional and continental science policy frameworks while maintaining grassroots ownership.

The group plays a foundational role in establishing SAPhysNet as a credible and sustainable regional physics network

Working Group Members

  • Prof Mmantsae Diale, University of Pretoria (South Africa) – Working Group Leader

  • Prof Igle Gledhill, University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa)

Working Group 2: White Paper on Shaping Physics in SADC

The objective of this group is to establish a strategic framework that elevates physics education, research, and infrastructure across the SADC region, positioning physics as a primary driver for sustainable development in energy, healthcare, ICT, and climate action.
The core strategic interventions include:
  • Baseline Assessment: Mapping regional education systems, research outputs, and infrastructure to identify disparities.
  • Capacity Building: Establishing postgraduate programmes and mobility schemes to curb brain drain and develop scientific leadership.
  • Shared Infrastructure: Developing regional laboratories and digital platforms to ensure equitable access to scientific tools.
  • Curriculum & Policy Reform: Aligning physics programmes with regional socioeconomic needs and advocating for increased government funding.
  • Industry Integration: Bridging academia and the private sector through innovation hubs, public-private research, and student internships.
A baseline survey questionnaire will be administered. This survey initiates the critical “Landscape Assessment” phase. The data collected will identify specific regional gaps in infrastructure and human capital, directly informing and shaping the White Paper’s evidence-based recommendations.
 

Mandate and Objectives: The primary objective of WG2 is to understand the status of physics in the SADC region, including its current state, strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and opportunities. This assessment will cover physics education, research, facilities, collaborations, international and regional cooperation, and the workforce. Based on these findings, the group will develop recommendations on how SAPhysNet can address these issues and contribute to regional SADC development for socio-economic matters.

Working Group Members
  • Dr Sifiso M. Nkambule, University of Eswatini (Kingdom of Eswatini) – Working Group Leader
  • Prof Y. Ramma, Deputy Director, Université des Mascareignes (Mauritius)
  • Dr Khemanand Moheeput,  Department of Science,  Mauritius Institute of Education (Mauritius)

Working Group 3: Resource Mobilisation ​

This working group focuses on securing the financial and institutional sustainability of SAPhysNet. Its tasks include:

  • Identifying funding opportunities and partnership models.
  • Engaging with governments, universities, international organisations, and funding agencies.
  • Developing strategies for long-term financial sustainability.
  • Supporting collaborative projects and regional initiatives through resource mobilisation.

The group recognises that sustainable scientific coordination requires strong financial planning and diversified support mechanisms.

Working Group Members
  • Mr Edgar Chambukeni Nkhoma – Working Group Leader

Working Group 4: Organising Committee to IUPAP GA & WG21 Conference 2027

This working group is responsible for coordinating the planning and delivery of the 2027 IUPAP General Assembly and WG21 Conference. Its role includes overseeing logistics, programme development, partnerships, fundraising, communications, and stakeholder engagement to ensure a successful international event that showcases physics in Southern Africa and strengthens regional and global collaboration.

Working Group Members
  • Dr Khemanand Moheeput, Department of Science,  Mauritius Institute of Education (Mauritius) – Working Group Leader

Working Group 5: Marketing and Publicity Working Group

This working group focuses on increasing the visibility, reach, and recognition of SAPhysNet through strategic communication, branding, outreach, and engagement activities. Its role includes promoting network activities, strengthening public awareness, and encouraging broader participation from physicists, institutions, students, and partners across the region.

Working Group Members

  • Dr Joyful Mdhluli, South African Astronomical Observatory/ IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (South Africa) – Working Group Leader

  • Prof Cosmas Muiva, Botswana International University of Science and Technology (Botswana)
  • Mr Vasco Cossa, Rhodes University (Mozambique)
  • Ms Tabitha Alango, University of South Africa – UNISA (Kenya)