Speaker
Description
With the current success of physics and astronomy and their technological support bases in South Africa, there is a need to identify and nurture talent in physics. It is clear that the current South African schooling system has little chance of doing this, and thus it becomes imperative that alternative means are found to grow local talent. This need was identified by the International Physics Review Panel, recommendation 4.1.4, but there has been very little progress since the International Year of Physics in 2005, when the first Physics Olympiad was held. A possible way forward will be outlined, what is needed and how it will be implemented will be discussed. A brief look will also be taken at the future potential of SAPhO including the formation of a Pan African Physics Olympiad, PAPhO, as a potential precursor to participation in the IPhO. Some concluding remarks on the challenges facing formation of the SAPhO will also be addressed, including possible solutions and necessary mechanisms that will need to be in place.
| Level (Hons, MSc, <br> PhD, other)? | Other |
|---|---|
| Consider for a student <br> award (Yes / No)? | No |
| Would you like to <br> submit a short paper <br> for the Conference <br> Proceedings (Yes / No)? | Yes |
