The South African Society for Animal Science (SASAS) was founded on 28 April 1961, in Pretoria, It is home to animal scientists that work in a broad spectrum of the agricultural industry, including the livestock sector, animal scientists performing research, education and training at universities or research institutions and animal scientists with a keen interest in the various disciplines of the animal sciences. Specifically, SASAS positions itself to promote and advance animal science and related professions. Moreover, SASAS members collectively strive to contribute towards a robust and productive scientific knowledge economy, through its journal, congresses and symposia. The first congress was held in Pretoria in 1962 and SASAS celebrated a significant milestone with its 50th congress in Port Elizabeth in 2017.
SASAS is also a member of the World Association for Animal Production as part of our international networks in the world of Animal Science. SASAS joined the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) in 2023 to broaden our footprint in the greater science and technology community of South Africa.
The Society is the designated voluntary organisation, recognised by the SA Council for Natural Science Professions (SACNSP) (Act 27 of 2003), and represents the Animal Sciences on the Professional Affairs Committee of SACNASP and other technical committees on issues regarding the registration of scientists, amongst others, as well as the management of the continuing professional development (CPD) for its members and the candidate mentoring programme (CMP) of young animal scientists.
Members of SASAS are guided by the values of ethical science, independence, non-discrimination, tolerance of diversity, honesty, integrity, respect, non-partisanship, innovation, diligence, responsiveness, and collaboration.
SASAS has various activities to serve the members of the Society, including an annual congress and the South African Journal of Animal Science (SAJAS) which was initiated in 1971 and published online since 2000 as an open access journal with its 54th volume published in 2024. The journal provides a platform for local and international animal scientists to publish their scientific research in a peer-reviewed journal. SAJAS has a dedicated editor-in-chief to ensure timeous publishing of high- quality research, relevant to Southern Africa and subtropical regions of the world.
The Society’s activities centres on its branches, namely the Northern, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Free State branches. Branch activities include the organising of symposia, information days, and contacting and cooperating with local organisations with similar interests on relevant issues in their regions. On a rotation basis, branches are responsible for the organising the Society’s annual congresses, to share animal science knowledge to promote viable animal production systems while sustaining natural resources and the environment, to benefit mankind. Student quiz and debate sessions, where animal science students from various universities in the country compete have been incorporated into the annual SASAS Congress.
Trevor Dugmore
SASAS President
10/12/2024
