Minister Naledi Pandor has urged the newly inaugurated council of the Africa Institute of South Africa (AISA) to promote awareness and consciousness of Africa at grassroots level.
Speaking at the inauguration of the institute’s new council members in Pretoria, the minister said AISA should play a prominent role in promoting a public understanding of African affairs in the country. The inauguration is a platform for the minister to convey her expectations, and council members' roles and responsibilities.
"We have this kind of meeting with each new board of any of the science councils, where we really get together to get a sense of what the department's and minister's expectations are with respect to how the work of the council and the institution fits in with the overall programme of the department and of government as well," said Minister Pandor.
AISA’s mandate is to provide policy development support, research on African affairs, conduct research and training, as well as establish and maintain networks on the continent.
Outgoing chairperson, Professor Nthabiseng Ogude, said she appreciated the work done by the previous council. She congratulated the new council members on their appointment and thanked Minister Pandor for the relationship she has with AISA.
"I would like to congratulate the new chairperson, Dr Beki Hlatshwayo. I think he has both the expertise and dedication to steer AISA to accomplish its mandate," said Professor Ogude.
Dr Hlatshwayo thanked the Department of Science and Technology for the confidence it had expressed in AISA's mandate. He added that AISA would continue seeking innovative ways to contribute to development and knowledge creation for all of Africa.
Issued by: Department of Science and Technology
10 March 2010
Source: Department of Science and Technology (http://www.dst.gov.za/)
