The ​​NSTF-South32 Awards were established in 1998 as a collaborative effort to recognise outstanding contributions to science, engineering and technology ​and innovation in South Africa for researchers and other related professionals. This includes experienced scientists, engineers, innovators, ​researchers, ​communicators, capacity builders, leaders and managers. 

 

The NSTF-South32 Awards ​are referred to as the ‘Science Oscars’ of South Africa, as ​the awards are the largest​ and most comprehensive​ national awards ​in the field. The ​much sought-after ​NSTF​-South32​ Awards ​remain the first ​national ​science awards in the country.

Of specific interest to us is that two of the nominees are SAIMechE ​members, specifically our ​​President Prof Wikus van Niekerk (​FSAIMechE) and ​​Prof Theo von Backstrom (Hon F​SAIMechE).

 

Prof van Niekerk has been nominated in two categories​: ​the ​NSTF-GreenMatter Award​ for conservation, sustainability and a greener economy as well as ​t​he ​Data for Research Award​ for​ ​the availability, management and use of ​research ​data.

 

Prof von Backstrom has been nominated in the category Lifetime Award.