In late September 2025, the OAD had the opportunity to host a special visitor, Professor Willy Benz, President of the International Astronomical Union (IAU). His visit, which took place from 25–28 September 2025, was filled with meaningful engagements that celebrated astronomy’s power to connect science, society, and development.
Professor Benz was in South Africa as part of the G20 Science Ministers’ Meeting, during which he also joined a Square Kilometre Array (SKA) site visit where IAU OAD Director Kevin Govender moderated a panel discussion. Alongside these high-level events, the OAD hosted several activities designed to foster connection, collaboration, and inspiration.
The visit began with a small gathering of the OAD team, valued partners, and new collaborators. The evening provided an opportunity for relaxed conversation and connection, highlighting the partnerships that have made the OAD’s global impact possible.
Friday was a day of dynamic engagement and collaboration. Professor Benz joined incoming SKAO Director-General Jessica Dempsey for a visit to the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), where they were hosted by the Managing Directors of South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), Pontsho Maruping, and SAAO, Rosalind Skelton, for a tour of the facilities.
One of the highlights of the day was the launch of the IAU OAD’s Flagship Ecosystem — a milestone initiative designed to strengthen collaboration across astronomy-for-development projects worldwide. The day also included a visit to a local school for an outreach and public engagement activity, reinforcing the OAD’s mission to bring the inspiration of astronomy to communities at every level.
The day concluded with a Heritage Day celebration with staff at the SAAO, blending South Africa’s rich cultural heritage with the shared passion for the night sky.
The second last day of the visit took Professor Benz and the OAD Director to Sutherland, home to the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT). The day’s itinerary included a tour of the Sutherland community centre, visits to the telescopes and visitor centre, and a trip to the telescope plateau to witness SALT in action. The visit showcased not only South Africa’s world-class astronomical infrastructure but also the close relationship between science and the local community.
Professor Benz’s visit to South Africa highlighted the IAU’s ongoing commitment to using astronomy as a tool for development. Through collaboration with local institutions such as SARAO, SAAO, and the OAD, the visit reaffirmed the power of partnership in advancing both scientific discovery and societal progress.
