Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) The mandate of the Academy of Science of South Africa is to promote the outstanding achievements in all fields of scientific enquiry, grant recognition for excellence, and provide evidence based scientific advice to government and other stakeholders. The Academy's strategic goals over the medium term are to: . recognise scholarly achievement and excellence in the application of scientific thinking for the benefit of society; . mobilise members to contribute their expertise in the service of society; . conduct systematic and evidence based studies on issues of national importance and producing authoritative reports that have significant impact on policy making; . promote the development of an indigenous system of South African research publications, increasing their quality, visibility, accessibility and impact; . publish science focused periodicals that will showcase the best of Southern African research to a wide national and international audience; . develop productive partnerships with national, regional and international organisations with a view to building capacity in science and its application within the national system of innovation; . create diversified sources of funding for sustainable functioning and the growth of a national academy; and . communicate effectively with relevant stakeholders through various media and fora.