The SAAO is committed to astronomy education, communication and development. As part of this commitment, it offers an education and outreach programme to schools.
The SAAO also offers stargazing visits to schools, and takes part in science exhibitions like SciFest Africa and Techno X. If you are a teacher and would like us to come and visit your school (or would like your learners to visit the SAAO), please send us an enquiry.
Large science projects like the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) have the power to transform society through education, inspiration and capacity-building. The SALT Collateral Benefits Programme (SCBP) uses knowledge, technology, and other resources produced by SALT to improve quality of life through education, science engagement, and socio-economic development.
The SCBP focuses on four pillars to achieve these goals:
The Sutherland Community Development Centre (SCDC) is an SAAO initiative sponsored by the Department of Science and Innovation to translate SAAO’s scientific and technological work into benefit for communities in the Sutherland region. The SCDC aims to: