Speaker
Description
The African Light Source (AfLS) project powers the vision for a large scale research infrastructure, known as a light source, in Africa. This super microscope is capable of addressing all the UN SDGs, including Africa specific challenges. It is a premier instrument which can support massive human capacity building and globally competitive research across many disciplines. It also supports innovation, and competitive industry. This contribution reflects on progress over the past year, including the imminent release of the Conceptual Design Report (CDR), and the near final form of the reports from the three Statistic Task Forces (STFs). We will also hear of new partnerships and developing networks at the global level. Notable scientific projects, and major scientific training will be reported on by others. This promises to be a watershed conference, as we reflect on the tremendous progress and achievements. The future holds a developing schedule towards the African Light Source, with professionalisation of the AfLS expected in 2025. We look forward to an excellent conference.