by Ria Olivier | Apr 11, 2024 | Announcement, SANAP, SEAmester
LEARNER (FET) APPLICATION FORM
- Applications need to be completed by
- * No late or incomplete applications will be considered. (CLOSINGDATE 19 APRIL)
- SEAmester VII dates are 24th June to 4th July 2024
SEAmester – South Africa’s Class Afloat aims to introduce marine science as an applied and cross- disciplinary field to students who have shown an interest in the core science disciplines. It combines traditional classroom lectures with hands-on ship-based deck activities; while providing them with an opportunity to support specialist scientists in recognised marine research activities. During the voyage, students will engage in classroom lectures, assignments, and hands-on research activities, covering topics such as physical oceanography, marine biology and environmental science. Learners will also work with sophisticated instrumentation, collect data and gain experience in data analysis and scientific research techniques. The research group comprises over 30 oceanographic, fisheries, biogeochemical and biological experts, who jointly have trained over 600 Southern African students onboard a wide variety of international and local research vessels.
The SEAmester programme is usually offered to 40 post-graduate students. With the introduction of Marine Sciences in the FET phase, the SEAmester team, led by Prof. Isabelle Ansorge from the University of Cape Town, has made available two spaces for high-school learners. These two learners will be selected through an objective process. The team invites full-time Grade 11 and Grade 12 learners to apply for and potentially be selected for this amazing opportunity.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
- CLOSING DATE 19 APRIL 2024
- To apply to be part of this amazing opportunity:
- Applicants must be full-time in Grade 11 or Grade 12 in 2024.
- Applicants must be doing Marine Sciences as school subject in Grade 11 or Grade 12.
- Applicants must have a passion for marine sciences and an enthusiastic attitude .
- Applicants must provide a 350 – 500, covering:
- your understanding of the importance of marine science research on vessels such as the SA Agulhas II
- a motivation as to why you should be selected to be part of SEAmester – South Africa’s class afloat, and what you hope to gain from this
- be available to be on board the research ship from 24 June to 4 July 2024 (a valid passport would be required)
Sounds like a dream potentially coming true?
- Go to: https://forms.gle/fBSN3dZVLRHJJmWf9
- Complete the relevant
- Upload an official copy of your Term 1, 2024 academic
- Upload a copy of your essay
- Any questions regarding your application? Email:
by Ria Olivier | Apr 3, 2024 | Announcement, Research, SANAP
The SANAP research projects approved for the cycle 2024-2026 are represented under the following Marine and Antarctic Strategy themes.
OCEAN and Marine Ecosystems under Global Change
- Antarctic MIZ Observations: Interdisciplinary approaches to resolve seasonal sea-ice variability. (UCT)
- Decoding the mercury cycle in the Southern Ocean: in situ observations and advanced modeling. (SAWS)
- ECOSOPHY – Emergent constraints on Southern Ocean phytoplankton physiology. (CSIR)
- Growth dynamics of sea ice and how they affect the sea ice mechanics. (UCT)
- Micronutrient and pollutant trace elements at the air-sea interface of the Southern Ocean. (SUN)
- Southern Ocean Carbon-Heat Nexus: mixed-layer processes & feedbacks for improved climate projections. (CSIR)
- The biological carbon pump in a changing Southern Ocean. (UCT)
Earth Systems Observations
- Crustal evolution of Dronning Maud Land (UJ)
- Landscape and Climate Interactions in the sub-Antarctic. (UFH)
- Polar Space Weather Studies (SANSA)
- Provenance and paleomagnetics of the rocks of the Grunehogna Craton in Western Dronning Maud Land. (UJ)
- SANAE HF radar. (SANSA)
- Structural Glaciological Analysis of North-Western Antarctic Ice Shelf – SANAS (UCT)
Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Biodiscovery
- Ecogenomics (UJ)
- Interactive effects of multiple stressors and environmental change on seabird breeding performance. (DFFE)
- Marion Island mouSe Ecology – MISE (UP)
- Marion Island Top Predator Long-Term Observations. (SAEON)
- On-island impacts of climate change on the Southern Ocean’s iconic seabirds. (UCT)
Innovation and development
- SA Agulhas II – Flagship for Vessel (4.0) – Part II (SUN)
Human Enterprise
- Antarctic Legacy of South Africa. (SUN)
- SEAmester – South Africa’s Floating University. ( UCT)
- South African Antarctic Artists and Writers Programme – AWP Pilot. (UP)
- The Marion Island Hut Book Project. (UFS)
For details and links see SANAP website.
by Ria Olivier | Mar 11, 2024 | Announcement, Environment, Invasion Biology, Marine Protected Area, Marion Island, Mice Eradication, Prince Edward Island, Prince Edward Islands
MINISTER CREECY LAUNCHES THE 3RD NATIONAL STATUS OF BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS AND THEIR MANAGEMENT IN SOUTH AFRICA
Full release available on Department of Forestry Fisheries nd the Environment website
“We must continue investing in research and innovation, supporting studies that enhance our understanding of invasive species dynamics to improve management strategies. The 3rd National Status report on Biological Invasions serves as a clarion call for action reminding us of the urgency of the situation and the imperative to act decisively,”
“Addressing the challenges posed by biological invasions requires a coordinated and collaborative effort. No single entity can tackle this issue alone. Government, academics, civil society organisations and communities must come together, pooling their knowledge, resources and expertise to develop effective prevention, early detection and control strategies,” said Minister Creecy.
Thirdly, invasive species are devastating the unique and sensitive biodiversity of the Prince Edward Islands. For the first time, this report provides a separate assessment of the status of biological invasions and their management on the Prince Edward Islands. Although these islands are part of South Africa, their remote location and unique biodiversity warrant a separate assessment. Findings highlight the devastating impact of the house mouse, which is alien to the Marion Island. The mice feed on plants, and small animals including endangered seabirds. A bold plan to eradicate mice from the island has been developed and is due to be implemented in 2027. The eradication of mice from Marion Island is essential if its unique biodiversity is to be preserved.
by Ria Olivier | Feb 14, 2024 | Announcement, Marine Protected Area, Marion Island, Prince Edward Island, Prince Edward Islands
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is calling for the submission of nominations for the appointment of members to serve on the Prince Edward Islands Special Nature Reserve Advisory Committee (“PEIAC”) for the period 2024 to 2026.
See the full criteria here and Public Notice
Enquiries may be directed to:
Ms Daisy Kotsedi
Tel: 021 493 7354
E-mail: dkotsedi@dffe.gov.za
CLOSING DATE: 19 March 2024
by Ria Olivier | Jan 23, 2024 | Announcement, Jobs, Marion Island, Overwintering Team, SANAP
Join the 81 Marion Island Overwintering Team!
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is looking for a suitable candidate as communications engineer to join the 2024/2025 Marion Island team.
The team will depart (on the research and supply vessel, S.A. Agulhas II) to the sub-Antarctic Marion Island in April 2024 and return in May 2025. Click Here for the Marion Newsletter “The Wanderer” to read more about the overwintering team members experiences and activities. (Latest newsletter) More information available on SANAP website.
Position to be filled: Communications Engineer/Technician
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5 February 2024
Click on the here to apply.
by Ria Olivier | Nov 30, 2023 | Announcement, Legacy, Obituary, Oceanography, Research, SA Polar Research Infrastructure, SAPolarRI, SAPRI, SEAmester, Southern Ocean, Women in Science
It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Dr Precious Thembumuzi Mahlalela.
Dr Mahlalela, Research Coordinator of the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI) LTO-Ocean Integrated Facility, passed away on 28 November 2023 after a short battle with cancer.
Dr Mahlalela joined NRF-SAEON (host of SAPRI) in May 2023 at the same time as successfully finishing off the corrections for her PhD in Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences thesis, entitled Variability and Trends in Rainy Season Characteristics of the Eastern Cape. She was due to graduate in December.
Upon joining the SAPRI team, she threw herself straight into the adventure, assisting with SEAmester and providing great support at sea. As soon as she was back on dry land she flew to China to learn about moorings. Although this was her first international trip, she approached it like the other challenges she has faced, with a calm and humble attitude, open to learning and new experiences. Upon her return, she insisted on accompanying the SEAON team on a science engagement roadshow in the Western Cape to inspire young minds. She continued to work with the same positive energy and gentle sense of humour that endeared her to everyone.
“In the short time she was with us at SAPRI she became part of our family. Taken from us far too soon, her light will continue to shine through the friendships she made, the individuals she worked with, and the souls she ignited with inspiration. Fair winds and following seas, shipmate. We have the watch now” Prof Juliet Hermes – SAPRI and SAEON Egagasini Manager.
Dear Precious
Your warmth and gentle spirit shone so brightly that any room you walked into lit up with a soft glow. You were an angel on this earth who combined both a bubbly and calming presence and we will miss you more than any words can convey. We were so honoured to have worked with you.
Go gently dearest Precious. With love, from the SAPRI team.
The SAPRI team and SAEON Egagasini team will miss you dearly.
Our deepest condolences to Precious’s family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of meeting her.
Obituary of Precious Mahlalela by Juliet Hermes, Tammy Morris, Anne Treasure, Errol Julies, Anche Louw, Abu Nguna, Rabia Mathakutha and Riesna R. Audh, 30 November 2023.
SEAmester – South Africa’s Class Afloat aims to introduce marine science as an applied and cross- disciplinary field to students who have shown an interest in the core science disciplines. It combines traditional classroom lectures with hands-on ship-based deck activities; while providing them with an opportunity to support specialist scientists in recognised marine research activities. During the voyage, students will engage in classroom lectures, assignments, and hands-on research activities, covering topics such as physical oceanography, marine biology and environmental science. Learners will also work with sophisticated instrumentation, collect data and gain experience in data analysis and scientific research techniques. The research group comprises over 30 oceanographic, fisheries, biogeochemical and biological experts, who jointly have trained over 600 Southern African students onboard a wide variety of international and local research vessels.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
MINISTER CREECY LAUNCHES THE 3RD NATIONAL STATUS OF BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS AND THEIR MANAGEMENT IN SOUTH AFRICA
Thirdly, invasive species are devastating the unique and sensitive biodiversity of the Prince Edward Islands. For the first time, this report provides a separate assessment of the status of biological invasions and their management on the Prince Edward Islands. Although these islands are part of South Africa, their remote location and unique biodiversity warrant a separate assessment. Findings highlight the devastating impact of the house mouse, which is alien to the Marion Island. The mice feed on plants, and small animals including endangered seabirds. A bold plan to eradicate mice from the island has been developed and is due to be implemented in 2027. The eradication of mice from Marion Island is essential if its unique biodiversity is to be preserved.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is calling for the submission of nominations for the appointment of members to serve on the Prince Edward Islands Special Nature Reserve Advisory Committee (“PEIAC”) for the period 2024 to 2026.
Join the 81 Marion Island Overwintering Team!
