11 May NRF-SAAO hosts Indian High Commission for symbolic handover celebrating astronomy collaboration

NRF-SAAO hosts Indian High Commission for symbolic handover celebrating astronomy collaboration

The National Research Foundation’s South African Astronomical Observatory (NRF-SAAO) was pleased to host the High Commissioner of India to South Africa, His Excellency Prabhat Kumar, at the NRF-SAAO in Cape Town on 8 May 2026 for a symbolic banner handover celebrating the strong and growing scientific partnership between India and South Africa.

The banner, bearing the name and logo of India’s Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), will be displayed at the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) in Sutherland. The gesture recognises IUCAA’s important role as an international partner in SALT and reflects the continued strengthening of bilateral cooperation in astronomy, technology development and scientific research.

The delegation was welcomed to the historic Observatory site, where guests were taken on a guided tour highlighting the Observatory’s scientific heritage, including the cutting-edge Precision Workshop and early telescopes and astronomical instruments that contributed to the development of astronomy in South Africa.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, High Commissioner Kumar emphasised the importance that the Government of India places on science, research and innovation, and reaffirmed India’s commitment to scientific collaboration with South Africa. He noted the deep historical ties between the two countries and expressed continued support from the Indian High Commission and Consulate for initiatives that advance shared scientific goals.

NRF-SAAO Managing Director Prof Rosalind Skelton highlighted the significance of SALT’s achievements over the past two decades and the importance of international collaboration in sustaining its scientific and technological impact. She noted that SALT continues to deliver cutting-edge research on the southern skies, inspires society through astronomy, and develops technological capacity locally and among partner countries.

The event also reflected the broader science, technology and innovation partnership between South Africa and India, including cooperation through the BRICS framework. With India holding the 2026 BRICS Chairship, NRF-SAAO looks forward to continued engagement in upcoming astronomy-related meetings and collaborative programmes, including the BRICS astronomy working group meeting and SALT-related engagements planned in India later this year.

The handover served as a meaningful reminder of the value of international partnerships in advancing world-class science, developing technical expertise, and building enduring relationships between nations through astronomy.