President's Column

摘要

As I put pen to paper during a highveld lightning and thunderstorm this afternoon, I must report that the new SACNAS Bill Act 27 of 2003 could have a profound influence on many of our practicing geologists. As of Monday the 16~(th) of February, new categories of registration will be in place. The old Council has now become an interim council and will oversee the body until the new Council is in place. The public, the Department of Arts, Science and Culture, and the voluntary professional organizations will nominate new Council members. The minister will then decide on the composition of the new Council. Previously geologist had no real representation of SACNAS and we now need to push for more proportional representation, as this is our statuary body. The new act can be downloaded from the SACNAS website. The registration categories have been changed to: Professional Natural Scientist - Any person with a 4-year degree or diploma which is accredited by the HEQC (Higher Education Qualification Committee) and with 3 years of work experience of an appropriate nature.