Explore how astronomy and space science are strengthening South Africa's research and innovation landscape while inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators. Join Takalani Nemaungani, Chief Director: Astronomy at the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), as he examines the strategic role of astronomy in advancing STEM education for sustainable development, fostering scientific excellence and building the research capacity needed to address Africa's future challenges through national and international collaboration.

Takalani Nemaungani

The Unisa Catalytic Niche Area (CNA) Research Symposium is a catalyst for transformative scholarship, where interdisciplinary research is translated into impact by informing policy, driving innovation and delivering meaningful societal change. Anchored in the University's ten Catalytic Niche Areas, the Symposium showcases research excellence while creating opportunities to build strategic partnerships, stimulate new thinking and expand collaborative research across disciplines and sectors.

By connecting academia with government, industry, and civil society, the Symposium strengthens Africa's research ecosystem, inspires innovative solutions to complex challenges, and advances research responsive to the continent's development priorities. It reflects Unisa's commitment to research leadership and to producing knowledge that contributes to sustainable development, inclusive growth and global scholarship.

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Introducing Takalani Nemaungani

Panellist: Thursday, 30 July 2026

CNA 5. Space Study and Square Kilometre Array

Theme: Astronomy and Space Sciences for Sustainable STEM Education and Research

• Venue: Thamsanqa Kambule Auditorium, Science Campus
• Broadcast: Exam Hall 1, Muckleneuk Campus

Takalani Nemaungani leads South Africa's national astronomy portfolio, one of the department's flagship programmes and the single largest area of investment within the DSTI.

A trained engineer who graduated from the University of the Witwatersrand, Mr Nemaungani began his career in the private sector in 1994, working for companies including Samancor and Sasol before joining the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). He has played a pivotal role in advancing astronomy in South Africa, across Africa, and internationally. He serves as Secretariat to the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Astronomy Working Group, promoting scientific collaboration among the member countries.

Before joining the Astronomy Division, Nemaungani was Director: Global Projects in the International Cooperation and Resources Branch of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), where he coordinated the Promoting Africa–Europe Research Infrastructure Partnership (PAERIP).

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* By Virginia McManus, Manager: PR, Communication and Marketing, Directorate Research Support