upcoming young chemists symposium aims to advance excellence in the chemical sciences in south Africa
By: Qhawekazi Memani – 22 November 2023
It is all systems go for the 2023 Young Chemists Symposium that will be hosted by the South African Chemical Institute (SACI) Gauteng Central Section on 24 November.
The hosts is a collective comprising eight esteemed institutions including the Vaal University of Technology (VUT, University of Johannesburg (UJ), University of Witwatersrand (Wits), University of South Africa (UNISA),), North West University (NWU), University of the Free States (UFS), Central University of Technology (CUT), and Sol Plaatje University (SPU).
Hosted online via Zoom, the Symposium is an annual event that displays innovative research in the field of Chemistry, and this year’s instalment marks the continuation of a tradition where each member institution takes turns organizing this significant gathering of young scientific minds.
Postgraduate students pursuing their Master’s and PhD studies from the member institutions will have the unique opportunity to present their research papers and projects through both oral and poster presentations. While each university is granted the privilege to send a designated number of students, the symposium extends a warm invitation to postgraduate students from institutions outside Gauteng who wish to display their work.
The event is sponsored in majority by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), a leading professional body in the field of Chemistry who say their support underscores their commitment to fostering excellence in scientific research and education.
A highlight of the symposium will be the recognition of outstanding presenters, with prizes awarded to the top three contributors from both oral and poster presentations. This acknowledgment by the RSC serves as a testament to the calibre of research and innovation that the Young Chemists Symposium consistently attracts.
“We are excited to host the Young Chemists Symposium 2023 and provide a platform for the brilliant minds in our community to share their groundbreaking research. Despite the virtual format, we anticipate an engaging and informative event that reflects the dedication and passion of our young chemists,” said VUT’s Professor Thokozani Xaba, an Associate Professor in the Department of Biotechnology and Chemistry within’s Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences and Dr Agnes Pholosi also serve as the Event Organizers.
The Young Chemists Symposium 2023 promises to be a dynamic and collaborative gathering, fostering the exchange of ideas and promoting the advancement of chemical sciences in South Africa. For further information on the event, please visit www. vut.ac.za.
About SACI:
The South African Chemical Institute (SACI) is a professional body that promotes the interests of the chemical community in South Africa. With a commitment to advancing chemical education and research, SACI plays a pivotal role in nurturing the growth of the chemical sciences in the region.
About the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC):
The Royal Society of Chemistry is a leading professional body and learned society for chemical sciences with a rich history dating back to 1841. The RSC is dedicated to advancing excellence in the chemical sciences and supporting the global scientific community through its various initiatives and programs.