The call for abstracts and invitations to honorable guests was sounded and Animal Science enthusiasts responded. Under the theme “Golden Innovations for Sustainable Animal Agriculture” we are sure to be challenged to think beyond the survival of our generation with the hope that post congress conversations will be centered on sustainable innovation. With less than a month to go to the 50th SASAS Congress to be hosted in Port Elizabeth by the Eastern Cape branch, one cannot help but look forward to a spectacular event with a multivariate line up of speakers from all disciplines of Animal Science.
Something for everyone
The organizing committee has since the announcement of their hosting dedicated themselves to ensuring the success of the 2017 Congress. The committee is led by Dr Monde Mapekula (Chairperson), Dr Yonela Z. Njisane (Vice-chairperson), Ms Ntombekhaya Faku (Secretary) and Dr Jean Rust (Treasurer). Additional members of the committee include Ms Nwabisa Nongauza, Mr Mvuyisi Mbangeni, Prof Charles Kadzere and Prof Voster Muchenje. The committee saw the need to have among them “brilliant young stars” that took it upon themselves to ensure that the congress is both vibrant and appealing to young agriculturalists. Miss Z. Soji and Mr. M. Mcayiya are the two student representatives that have ensured that young stars who will be attending the congress will be raving about it for decades to come. The committee also has senior members who hail from various disciplines of Animal Science. The congress therefore promise to be a treat for all delegates.
Simply the best
Only the very best of science will be presented to and by the congress delegates, with the aim of keeping up with the latest trends in Animal Science not just in South Africa but the continent and world at large. Professor Van Ryssen will through the delivery of the keynote address set the tone of the congress. Thereafter, exciting elements of the congress such as an opportunity to researchers to engage with industry experts for example: Mr K. Lovell, South African Poultry Association (SAPA), De Wet Boshoff, Animal Feed Manufacture’s Association (AFMA) and Mr P. Makube, First National Bank, to mention but a few. They will unpack the opportunities where the inquisitive skill of research is mostly needed to bridge the gap between the industry and research. As a cherry on top, congress delegates will also be treated to a scientific writing session facilitated by seasoned scientific journal editors among which will be Professor Mlambo and Dr James Sartin. I guess you have to be there to find out who else will be dishing out pearls of wisdom when it comes to scientific writing. As if that will not be enough to equip delegates, the congress will also to make room for the sharing of innovative discoveries through conversations. How you may ask, well delegates will be allowed the opportunity to mingle and reflect on the conference proceedings while enjoying the pleasant facilities the venue has to offer.
All work and play
Last but definitely not least is the gala dinner which promises to be a spectacular event that will include the giving of awards both to students and academics/researchers who have excelled in the field of Animal Science. The awards include the President’s award, which is awarded to individuals who through their work have contributed exceptionally in the field of Animal science. The Silver, Bronze and Gold medal which are awarded to members of the society who have shown brilliance in the category of research, technology transfer and industry development. These and many more will be the highlight of the gala dinner. There is definitely every reason to be part of what will be the event of the year! See you there.
