Presentations | 1 – 8 April 2015

Information provided by Namibia Scientific Society

Tuesday, 31st March at 19h30:

German presentation by Dr. Ute Schmiedel: Succulent plants of quartz surfaces in Southern Africa.

The quartz surfaces are both a scientifically and aesthetically fascinating phenomenon in southern Africa. Visually, they come in a variety of surface succulent dwarf shrubs, of which the “living stones” are the most famous. From a scientific perspective the quartz surface plants raise many interesting research questions with their unique properties. Quartz surface plants in southern Africa occur not only in the Succulent Karoo, where one would expect due to the dominance of leaf succulents, but also in the Cape Fynbos and in the Nama Karoo in southern Namibia. The presentation consists of pictures and graphics showcasing the specific characteristics of these quartz surface plants and describes how their properties control the vegetation in their specific locations. Heterogeneous patterns of quartz surface soils are responsible for the small-scale vegetation patterns and a high species diversity. Dr. Ute Schmiedel is a senior researcher at the Biodiversity, Evolution and Ecology of Plants Unit at the Biocentre Klein Flottbek and Botanical Garden of the University of Hamburg in Germany.

Questions and answers in English if preferred.

Wednesday, 1st  April at 19h30:

English presentation by Siegfried Lange: Emotional Intelligence and Profitability

Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is often just put off as a soft skill that assists individuals in their personal capacity. Very few companies actually realise the immense impact that EQ has on the bottom line. With a better understanding of these benefits organisations, of all types, can increase their impact in the market and become the workplace of choice. Sigi Lange presents his research and shares home grown (Namibian) insights with individuals that are keen to grow themselves and their sphere of influence.

Namibian Siegfried Lange studied Clinical Psychology at UNISA and UNAM. He is a member of the Psychological Association of Namibia (PAN) and the Psychological Counsel of Namibia, co-founder of Capacity Trust and a popular guest speaker at NBC Television and some radio channels. He is the author of the book “True Emotional Freedom”.

Wednesday, 8th April at 19h00: 

English presentation by Conrad Roedern: The Arrival of Electric Vehicles in Namibia.

Electric Vehicles (EVs) have not yet entered the Namibian stage in a meaningful way. Is this because they are not useful for our country or are other factors hampering their introduction?
Conrad Roedern, owner of a licensed EV, looks into the matter and gives an overview of this fascinating but challenging “future in arrival”: Electro Mobility in Namibia. He currently chairs the “Renewable Energy Industry Association of Namibia (REIAoN)” and has been actively involved with electric vehicles for more than 20 years. He believes that the “Solar Revolution” will soon be complemented with a transition to EVs.

Please note: due to time change events start from 8th April onwards at 19h00!

All events are open for public – everyone welcome! Venue is Namibia Scientific Society, Robert Mugabe Ave 110, opposite National Theatre. Safe parking in yard – Love street entrance.

Please note: The opinions expressed during any presentations, films or events are not necessarily in accord with ours.