SAEON Egagasini Node leads collaborative deep-sea exploration in African waters

The first science leg of the Around Africa Expedition, conducted in collaboration with NRF-SAEON, aimed to conduct seabed mapping and visual biodiversity surveys of Indian Ocean seamounts on the Madagascan Ridge and Agulhas Plateau.

Science and technology in action

Optimising observation standards and data pipelines to enhance impact: The SAEON technical team leads the way

The value of South Africa’s commitment to the collection of environmental data through SAEON cannot be understated. This demands consistent monitoring, accurate measurement and transparent data processes to ensure reliable data sets that deliver meaningful societal impact.

SAEON shines at international savanna research conference

NRF-SAEON shines at international savanna science networking conference

SAEON-related research featured in 13 presentations on topics ranging from vegetation responses to extreme fire, to the impacts of trees on soil microbes, the effects of extreme drought on bird diversity and the link between altered river flows and riverine trees.

ICSHMO 2025: Advancing Southern Hemisphere science

Delegates from the Global South were engaged in plenary sessions, panel discussions and oral and poster presentations, all aimed at creating a deeper understanding of meteorological and oceanographic dynamics in the Southern Hemisphere.

Opening speakers during the WCRP special session

Advancing the inclusion of the Global South in the Earth Sciences community

A special session at ICSHMO 2025 explored the systemic barriers facing Global South scientists, and how the World Climate Research Programme is working to build a more inclusive climate science community.

The vibrant panel discussion explored a range of perspectives on how innovative technologies and approaches can contribute to climate resilience.

Innovative technologies and coastal resilience

The AAORIA/Ocean20 hybrid workshop brought together scientists, innovators, institutional partners and regional stakeholders to explore how innovation can drive and enhance coastal resilience through new technologies, collaborative platforms and scientific research.

Building vital capacity

Dr Phumlile Cotiyane-Pondo introducing the Elwandle Coastal Node’s research and SMCRI platforms.

SAEON GSN students explore coastal marine sciences

The GSN-hosted activity at the Elwandle Node provided a platform for students to engage with coastal marine and estuarine research. The event attracted a diverse group of students ranging from undergraduates to PhD candidates.

National Science Week 2025: Bridging borders through science

The Eswatini National Science Week reaffirmed the value of science diplomacy, innovation exchange and community engagement. By strengthening partnerships between South African and Eswatini scientific institutions, the event set the stage for future joint projects.

Inland learners and educators exploring the OceanXplorer

Around Africa Expedition outreach programmes lay the groundwork for sustained regional and global impact

Working with NRF-SAEON’s science education team, the expedition brought the wonders of deep-sea exploration to life, sparking curiosity and inspiring the next generation of ocean scientists.

NRF-SAEON in the media

SAEON’s people and projects received coverage in national print, broadcast, online and social media.

I think you can have a ridiculously enormous and complex data set, but if you have the right tools and methodology, then it’s not a problem.

~ Aaron Koblin, entrepreneur in data and digital technologies

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