 | The Inter-university Institute for Data Intensive Astronomy (IDIA) is a partnership between three South African universities (Cape Town, Western Cape, Pretoria) and the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory. Its main goal is to develop expertise in data-intensive research, enabling South Africa to lead global projects on MeerKAT and other SKA pathfinder telescopes. |
 | Ilifu is a big data infrastructure that supports data-intensive research, helping South African researchers lead in astronomy and bioinformatics. Operated by IDIA, it is part of the national data infrastructure and is partially funded by the Department of Science and Innovation to support South Africa’s National Integrated Cyberinfrastructure System. |
 | The DARA (Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy) Big Data project, established in 2017 under the UK-South Africa Newton Fund, aims to build human capital in data-intensive research for South Africa and eight SKA Africa partner countries. It was initially funded by the UK’s Newton Fund, with support from the South African Department of Science and Innovation. In 2024, DARA Big Data received renewed funding from the DARA project. |
 | The Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD), a joint project of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) and the South African National Research Foundation (NRF), with support from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), aims to use astronomy as a tool for development. Its mission is to harness astronomy’s scientific, technological, and cultural benefits by mobilizing the necessary resources. |
 | The Department of Science and Innovation seeks to boost socio-economic development in South Africa through research and innovation. To achieve its goals, the Department provides leadership, an enabling environment and resources for science, technology and innovation. |
 | The African Astronomical Society (AfAS) is a Pan-African professional organization of astronomers. Its vision is to build a globally competitive and collaborative astronomy community in Africa. AfAS’s mission is to promote and advance astronomy, addressing Africa’s challenges and developing astronomy and human capacity across the continent. |
 | Founded in 1820, the SAAO is the national centre for optical and infrared astronomy in South Africa. Its primary role is to conduct fundamental research in astronomy and astrophysics by providing a world-class facility to scientists. The SAAO also promotes astronomy and astrophysics in southern Africa, by sharing research findings and discoveries, and participating in outreach activities to enthuse citizens about physics and astronomy. |
