The OAD (Office of Astronomy for Development) will participate in the South African Institute of Physics (SAIP 2026) Conference, hosted by the University of the Western Cape from 6-10 July 2026, sharing our work on astrotourism, astronomy for mental health, and hackathons for development. The South African Institute of Physics (SAIP) is the premier annual […]
Author Archives: joy
30
Apr
Apr
The IAU OAD has published its latest newsletter for the January to March 2026 period. Highlights in the newsletter: IAU Calls for Innovative Astronomy Projects to Promote Sustainable Development IAU OAD Celebrates 15 years of Impact 2025 Project Outcomes Upcoming events for 2026 Previous newsletters are on the website.
13
Mar
Mar
The first half of March marked a period of active engagement for Dr Joyful Mdhluli, Flagship Coordinator at the OAD. Through a series of meetings, workshops, and institutional visits across South Africa, Dr Mdhluli contributed to conversations on astrotourism, astronomy for development, and strengthening partnerships between government, academia, and science institutions. These engagements reflect the […]
23
Feb
Feb
Dark skies are not only a scientific resource, but a social, cultural, environmental, and economic asset. They are living heritage – essential to ecosystems, deeply woven into cultural identities, and increasingly recognised as catalysts for sustainable livelihoods through responsible tourism. Artificial light at night continues to increase globally, washing out the stars and disrupting natural […]
2026, News
Celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science: Astronomy as a Catalyst for Development
11
Feb
Feb
By Dr Joyful Mdhluli, OAD Flagship Coordinator The International Day of Women and Girls in Science was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015 to recognise the critical role women and girls play in science and technology. Celebrated annually on February 11, it aims to promote full and equal access to participation in […]