SUBMISSION ON THE FUTURE OF PHYSICS. - Nubi OO, Vista Mamelodi.

Contribution to the Workshop on the Future of Physics held at NRF auditorium - 10th of September, 2002.

Some questions should be asked:

What is Physics?

A branch of science that should be protected from extinction OR a branch of science that employs the exceptionally, mentally well-endowed people to seek an understanding of the world we live in?

I believe the latter. Care should be taken in "marketing" Physics so that the main philosophy that powers this branch of science is not lost. The perception of Physics, both within and outside academia, should reflect its rigorous, as well as its 'central' nature. The field of Physics should produce physicists and not job seekers. The establishment, by many institutions, of sub-departments (Applied Physics, Engineering Physics, etc.) have not shown much promise because the students that are a product of such are viewed as half-baked by industry, academia and other sectors.

Who is a Physicist?

A person who has survived Physics degree exams and is now working mainly as a teacher/lecturer of the tough subject (and probably engaged in some other part-time vocation) OR someone who endeavours to unravel the secrets of our universe through commitment and research?

I believe the latter. A physicist is more than just a physics lecturer, although to impart the knowledge/skills acquired in others, is an important aspect in sustaining the quest for 'unravelling the secrets'. Most working (as well as leisure) hours of physics lecturers are taken up by 'lecturing duties'.

Who should become a Physicist?

As many aspirants as possible who cannot be accommodated in other lucrative disciplines OR academically sound thoroughbreds who can handle the rigors of Physics?

I believe the latter. Why should brilliant students become lost in the sea of Doctors, Engineers or IT specialists? The study of Physics is a 'specialised' field and thus should not be so diluted as to entertain mediocrity. Should we seek quantity at the expense of quality. Physics should move away from recruiting the left-overs (often with the poorest of grades) and strive to have the 'cream of the tartar' in its clan.

What is the way to go?

Industry must be made to see the inherent benefits of funding this area. Many parents have a great influence on their child's future, so much so that some even see it as an investment. Marketing Physics should extend beyond industry to the general populace as well.

The field of Physics should be populated, not by 'trapping' often-unwilling students, but by reasonable incentives. The perception of the 'poor teacher' is truly poor. Incentives, of course, include good remuneration. Sponsorship from the industry may be required in this aspect as well.

As an occupation, Physics should be made more lucrative; not by breeding second-class physicists, but first class ones. A very hard-working or brilliant student will very likely opt for a path in Physics if the remuneration is good enough. One day should come when being a Physicist is competitive.

A physics lecturer should not have to divert his/her own energy into income-supplementing endeavours but devote his/her available resources for the progress of Physics.

Finally, Physics should look into research that is of interest and benefit to Africa in general, Southern Africa in particular. A lot of room exists in seeking understanding between conventional science and indigenous concepts, laws and beliefs