Ancient DNA from South Africa rock shelter reveals the same human population stayed there for 9,000 years
Oakhurst rock shelter is an archaeological site near the town of George on the southern coast of South Africa. It is set into a sandstone cliff above a stream in a valley forested by towering old yellowwood trees. Read more
Vaccines for mpox are finally reaching Africa. But questions about the virus remain
On September 13, the World Health Organization authorized a smallpox vaccine called Jynneos, made by Danish pharmaceutical company Bavarian Nordic, for use to tackle growing mpox outbreaks — an administrative move meant to speed distribution. Read more
Raisethorpe Secondary pupils shine at science fair
From fire retardant paint to asset-tracking software, Raisethorpe Secondary School’s matric pupils showcased their innovations at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, KwaZulu-Natal Central Regional Science Fair.
Why mpox is a global health emergency — again
The disease has spread rapidly in Africa, now affecting people in at least 13 countries, the Africa CDC says. Congo, which has had a steady rise in cases over the past decade, has seen big increases last year and this year. Across Africa this year alone, there have been more than 15,600 cases and 537 deaths from mpox, including deaths of young children and people whose immune systems were weakened by HIV.
National Science Week 2024
South Africans are invited to participate in National Science Week 2024, which will take place from 30 September to 5 October 2024 under the theme: “Living in a high-tech world: should we be concerned?“ This annual event aims to close the gap between society and science, since science has an impact on every aspect of people’s lives. […]
Ant insights lead to robot navigation breakthrough
Have you ever wondered how insects are able to go so far beyond their home and still find their way? The answer to this question is not only relevant to biology but also to making the AI for tiny, autonomous robots.
Winners of SA IYBSSD School Competition announced
ASSAf (Academy of Science of South Africa), representing the DSI (Department of Science and Innovation) and NRF (National Research Foundation), is delighted to announce the winners of the aforementioned competition, which was launched on 14 March 2022, on the UNESCO International Day of Mathematics under the theme “Mathematics Unites.” This special day not only celebrates the power of mathematics in our world but also provided an opportunity to engage South African school learners as part of the UN (United Nations) International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development (IYBSSD).
