Scientists march for funding

LEADING scientists in KwaZuluNatal from a range of scientific disciplines joined civil societies and local people in a March for Science in Durban. The University of KwaZulu-Natal, the Centre for the Aids Programme of Research in South Africa (Caprisa), the South African Medical Research Council, Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health Research and the Africa Health Research Institute joined forces in solidarity to highlight the critical importance of sustained and strategic support by governments and funding agencies to advance and promote scientific research and innovation.

“South Africa and indeed scientists from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, have made remarkable contributions in all spheres of science that have contributed to discoveries and improving and saving lives on the African continent and globally,” said Professor Quarraisha Abdool Karim, associate scientific director of Caprisa.

“We all benefit from the products of science, innovation and technology, but don’t often stop to reflect on how these come to be in society.” The march formed part of an International March for Science aimed at increasing public awareness about the importance of science in addressing challenges such as climate change, food security and diseases. – Staff Reporter TUESDAY APRIL 25 2017

SOUTH AFRICAN SCIENTISTS HAVE MADE REMARKABLE CONTRIBUTIONS

PICTURE: ABHI INDRARAJAN READY, STEADY: The importance of science was highlighted in Durban as KZN scientists and their supporters joined the March for Science, part of a global event to increase awareness about how science addresses various challenges.