19 April 2007
A blueprint for successful aerospace technology diffusion is expected to
emerge from Africa's first ever international aerospace symposium which started
in Pretoria today.
The two-day South African International Aerospace Symposium was officially
opened by Science and Technology Deputy Minister, Derek Hanekom, at the Council
of Scientific and Industrial Research International Convention Centre.
The symposium brings together leading local and international aerospace
researchers as well as senior representatives from leading international
aerospace industries.
Representatives of leading international and South African aerospace
companies and research organisations are discussing aspects of their strategic
technology plans in order to give a holistic view of the technology trends in
the global aerospace arena.
Current research in various aeronautics and space fields is also under the
spotlight.
South Africaâs niche areas of research in the aeronautics and space
environment, in the broader context of the European framework, are being
highlighted.
For its part the country is using this symposium to showcase its aerospace
capabilities in a forum of world-class expertise, while building sustainable
regional and international collaborations.
Deputy Minister Hanekom applauded the internationalisation of the countryâs
R&D efforts in aerospace technology.
He said the initiative to bring together a large and influential group of
researchers and industry development experts was in line with the Department of
Science and Technologyâs (DST) technology development strategy.
"The strategy identifies and implements industry needs-driven initiatives,
which are essential to a truly national and globally competitive manufacturing
environment," added the Deputy Minister.
The symposium takes place in the context of the European Framework programme
wherein South Africa wishes to strengthen its involvement.
The aerospace sector is strategically important to South Africa due to its
defence component, as well as the development of vital components to national
key points such as power generation, transport, weather and the
environment.
In the context of the governmentâs efforts to target and consolidate local
research and development, particularly in the aeronautics and space fields, the
symposium will explore a range of applicable technologies in advanced
aero-structures, electronics for airborne systems, light materials and
aerodynamic concepts.
The development of the Rooivalk combat helicopter, the Cheetah fighter jet,
the missile technology, and SumbandilaSat, SA's second satellite to be launched
into space later this year, are just some examples of how the local aerospace
industry has already positioned SA as a competitive option in the international
aerospace industry.
Together with the space manufacturing industry, the aerospace industry is
seen as a vital generator of wealth. It generates the highest added value items
of all industries, and therefore, a sustainable and growing aerospace industry
can be a significant building block for the economic prosperity of South
Africa.
The aerospace industry is responsible for research and development, design,
manufacture, support, maintenance, conversion and upgrade of:
* rotary and fixed wing aircraft
* satellites, satellite launch and tracking systems
* air traffic control systems
* unmanned aircraft
* weapons systems
* as well as their relevant subsystems and components
The symposium is hosted by the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Strategy
Implementation Unit and the Europe South Africa Science and Technology
Advancement Programme, on behalf of the Department of Science and Technology
(DST) and supported by the European Commission.
Several universities, research councils and industry are exhibiting at the
event which will culminate in a demonstration of a Proudly South African
Unmanned Aerospace system tomorrow.
Enquiries:
Nthabi Maoela
Cell: 082 944 0015
E-mail: nthabiseng.maoela@dst.gov.za
Kristin Klose
Cell: 082 902 9503
E-mail: kristin.klose@dst.gov.za
Celeste Tema
Cell: 082 928 5221
E-mail: celeste.tema@dst.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Science and Technology
19 April 2007
