WiPiSA 20 Year Celebration

In celebration of 20 years of Women in Physics in South Africa (WiPiSA), we invite Physics Departments across South African universities to submit proposals for inter-university joint lunches that bring together women in physics — including students, early-career researchers, academics, and allies — to celebrate, connect, and collaborate.

Objectives

  • Celebrate two decades of WiPiSA’s impact and presence.
  • Foster cross-institutional connections and collaborations.
  • Build networks of support and mentorship among women in physics.
  • Encourage inclusivity, visibility, and togetherness across departments and institutions.

Proposal Guidelines

We encourage creative, inclusive, and collaborative lunch events. Proposals should include:

  • Participating Universities/Departments: Must involve at least two institutions.
  • Event Theme or Focus (optional): e.g., mentorship, collaboration, equity, career pathways, science talks, etc.
  • Proposed Date and Location: Events should be held between August and October 2025, with a strong preference for August, in recognition of Women’s Month in South Africa.
  • Target Participants: Approximate number and categories (e.g., students, staff).
  • Programme Outline: Overview of the event (formal/informal, speakers, networking activities).
  • Budget Estimate: Basic outline (catering, venue, travel support if needed-no entertainment will be covered).
  • Organising Committee Contacts: Names and emails from both institutions.

Download template here

Funding & Support

WiPiSA will provide modest funding support for selected proposals to assist with logistics such as catering and travel subsidies for participants from partner institutions.

Selection Criteria

  • Alignment with WiPiSA’s mission and 20-year celebration.
  • Inclusion of at least two universities, with preference for geographic and institutional diversity.
  • Clear plan to promote networking, collaboration, and celebration.
    Feasibility within proposed budget and timeline.

How to Apply

Please submit your proposal as a PDF document to wipisa@saip.org.za with the subject:
WiPiSA 20-Year Lunch Proposal – [Lead University Name]  by 30 June 2025.

Questions?

Contact us at wipisa@saip.org.za for queries or assistance in connecting with potential partner institutions.