69th Annual Conference of the South African Institute of Physics (SAIP)
The 69th Annual Conference of the South African Institute of Physics (SAIP) was hosted by the University of the Witwatersrand, in recognition of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, 2025 (IYQ2025). SAIP2025 served as the premier annual gathering of local and international experts across all branches of physics.
A full-day Winter School ran in parallel with the conference, themed “Celebrating our quantum past, and embracing its future.” The school was well attended, with students from across the country participating in engaging tutorials delivered by leading voices in South Africa’s quantum community. The Winter School offered a glimpse into the cutting-edge quantum research being conducted locally – and inspired the next generation to carry it forward.
A highlight from SAIP2025 was Dr Yaseera Ismail’s inspiring plenary talk, “Shaping the Future: A Physics Journey to Groundbreaking Research in Quantum Technologies”. Her talk traced a remarkable journey into quantum science, spotlighting her pioneering work and the growing opportunities for women in physics. A key highlight was her achievement of a record-breaking 12,900 km ultra-secure quantum satellite link – a milestone in global quantum communication.
In recognition of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (#IYQ2025), we were thrilled to announce the winners of the SA QuTI Awards at SAIP2025, celebrating excellence in Quantum Technology presentations. Congratulations to these outstanding researchers:
Applied Physics Division
• Best PhD Presentation: Chisomo Daka
• Best MSc Presentation: Hadrian Bezuidenhout
Photonics Division
• Best PhD Presentation: Pedro Ornelas
• Best MSc Presentation: Fazilah Nothlawala
SAIP2025 not only celebrated the rich legacy of science but also showcased the vibrant future being shaped by South African researchers. From inspiring student engagement to groundbreaking research, the conference reaffirmed the country’s growing role in the global quantum landscape.
