White Paper on Physics in SADC

SAPhysNet’s interim governance structure comprises a Task Team and five Working Groups, 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. Among these, a dedicated Working Group is responsible for drafting the White Paper on Physics in SADC.

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)

To join a Working Group, submit your interest using the link below.