In a landmark agreement aimed at boosting Africa’s research capabilities in radio astronomy, the Square Kilometre Array Organisation (SKAO) and the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the SKAO Africa Programme. This initiative, set to run for a year, focuses on developing human capital in radio astronomy and computing across the continent.

Building on the foundation laid by the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) and South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the programme will leverage existing collaborations in eight African partner countries: Ghana, Kenya, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Madagascar, Mozambique, and Mauritius. These partnerships were integral to South Africa’s successful bid to host the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope, the world’s largest radio telescope.

“Our partners at SARAO and DSI have already laid a strong foundation for radio astronomy research in Africa,” said Thijs Geurts, SKAO’s Head of International Relations. “The SKAO Africa Programme will expand on this work, fostering a collaborative research environment while contributing to SKAO’s global mission.”

The programme’s goals align with SKAO’s broader vision of enabling international scientific collaboration and strengthening STEM research infrastructure in Africa. By doing so, it creates avenues for African nations to contribute to and benefit from global initiatives such as the SKA telescope.

One of the cornerstones of Africa’s progress in this field has been the Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy (DARA) initiative, a joint effort between the UK and South Africa. Since its launch in 2015, DARA has trained over 300 students across the continent, cultivating a new generation of researchers to tackle global scientific challenges. Earlier this year, the STFC announced an additional £6.5 million (USD 8.2 million) in funding to support training for 225 more students over the next three years.

Through collaborative research, advanced training programs, and access to cutting-edge technology, the SKAO Africa Programme aims to position Africa as a global leader in radio astronomy. This initiative is not just about scientific discovery but also about creating sustainable opportunities for African researchers, contributing to the continent’s growing role in global scientific advancement.

 

Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku

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https://spaceinafrica.com/2024/12/03/skao-and-stfc-partner-to-implement-skao-africa-programme/