Public Engagement

Hands-on work with SAIAB aquatic biologist, Roger Bills Sampling in an estuarine environment Chief Scientist Prof Alan Whitfield reviews specimens brought in from the estuary collection trip with participants
Sorting the catch! Invertebrates form an important niche role in freshwater ecosystems Students getting practical experience in DNA sequencing in the Molecular Lab Each participant receives a certificate of attendance

SAIAB aims to impact on values and attitudes of various sectors of the public through active engagement and to equip people with relevant information so they can take meaningful action that contributes towards the
sustainable use of aquatic biodiversity.

Public Engagement activities at SAIAB's support its research:

Tours of the facility are limited to small groups and take place on Friday afternoons at 2.30pm BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Special arrangements for school groups may be made on request.

SAIAB has a number of environmental educational resources for schools. For more information see this link.

Our Staff also actively participate in national science focus events such as Scifest Africa  and National Science Week.

Education and training: For undergraduate students who think they might like to extend their studies into aspects of aquatic biodiversity at the post-graduate level, SAIAB's Winter School is held in June/July each year. The 4-5 day course introduces undergraduate students (in their 3rd year of study) to biological diversity, taxonomy and systematics in freshwater, estuarine and marine environments through lectures, workshops and practicals as well as field work.

Please contact Vanessa Rouhani - for more information