Abstract:
Scientists and their research data is a matter of huge importance in the scientific world as this leads to data ownership. “The Antarctic is proof that great things can be achieved through collaboration”- Richard Fifield. The International Geophysical Year(IGY) of 1957-158 set the scene for global collaboration in this unique research field that cut across many disciplines. This IGY did not just capture the attention of scientists but that of the public and the politicians as well. The mystique surrounding this most southern continent creates an atmosphere of exploration. Scientists would like to discover all the unknown of the last wilderness on earth and other just want to be part of this immense wilderness.
South Africa already made a huge contribution to science in the Antarctic region since 1958, but with the accessibility of data that has been collected of more than five decades, our collaboration and contribution to research in this extreme wilderness is of utmost importance. The role of scientists and researchers and their collaboration with their counter part on a national and international cannot be emphasised enough. Collaboration in Antarctica comes from a joint passion for an unknown territory and the experience of the same hardships in a harsh environment. This discoveries leads to data and publishing scientific findings. That the outcome of these publications, findings and analysing of datasets can become knowledge for future generations of specifically South Africans, but to the greater continent of Africa as well as in a global world.
