When we think about anniversaries, 15 years is traditionally known as a crystal anniversary, and the symbolism of crystal is both beautiful and unique. Crystal represents clarity and transparency, reflecting the trust and openness that have grown over the years in a partnership. It also signifies care, strength and beauty, showing that even with its delicate nature, crystal is enduring, elegant, and able to last generations — just as we hope this collaboration will.

With these words, Finnish Ambassador Pekka Metso opened a day that felt connected in more ways than one. It was rainy and cold in Potchefstroom, much like the familiar weather in Finland, and that was not the only thing the two countries shared as they gathered to celebrate 15 years of Finnish–South African atmospheric research collaboration at the North-West University (NWU).

Finland is a country defined by its pristine natural landscapes, deep forests, and a culture that treats nature with reverence. It is a place where innovation is not pursued for prestige, but for the wellbeing of people and the planet. This spirit of thoughtful progress and care for the environment has shaped its long-standing partnership with South Africa and NWU. For more than a decade, this collaboration has been guided by a shared belief that scientific discovery should improve lives, protect the earth, and unlock possibilities for future generations.

The visit began in the office of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, who reflected on the importance of international cooperation in solving global environmental challenges. “Today’s engagement reaffirms our conviction that scientific cooperation across borders is essential to understanding and safeguarding our planet.”

Prof. Tyobeka described Welgegund as one of the most advanced atmospheric observation stations on the African continent and an asset of global scientific significance. He explained that over 15 years, this collaboration has delivered invaluable long-term data that strengthens evidence-based policymaking, agricultural planning, environmental leadership, and climate resilience. Its globally unique datasets continue to shape international research and inspire new partnerships. “Welgegund stands as a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when institutions commit to mutual respect and long-term strategic collaboration,” he said.

Drawing on his own experience as a nuclear scientist and engineer, Prof. Tyobeka added: “I have always admired how atmospheric scientists work with phenomena that cannot be enriched, contained, or shielded behind concrete, yet still produce data of extraordinary precision. Every scientific discipline carries its own elegance, its own mysteries, and its indispensable contribution to humanity.”

During his address, Ambassador Metso reminded attendees that the relationship between Finland and South Africa is not only strong, but thriving. He emphasised that bilateral relations “could not be better” and noted that the Finnish President will soon visit South Africa for the upcoming G20 Summit, a symbol of the nations’ growing closeness. “Science is the heart of what ties us together, and I look forward to building these ties for years to come,” he added.

The day concluded with a tour of the Welgegund Atmospheric Observation Station, where the delegation explored the technology, expertise, and research that have defined this partnership. Surrounded by panoramic landscapes, state-of-the-art instruments, and globally unique atmospheric datasets, it was a powerful reminder of what thoughtful collaboration, curiosity, and care for the planet can achieve.

The celebrations did not end in Potchefstroom. The following day, the programme continued in Pretoria, where the Finnish Embassy hosted the South African partners—first with an intimate gathering at the embassy, followed by a full day of presentations by all collaborating institutions at the CSIR International Convention Centre.

All thanks and acknowledgement go to the Atmospheric Chemistry Research Group, led by Prof Pieter van Zyl, Professor of Atmospheric Chemistry and Group Leader at the North-West University, and to Dr Miroslav (Micky) Josipovic, senior lecturer in Atmospheric Chemistry and Station Manager of the Welgegund Atmospheric Field Station. They provided the delegation with valuable insight into the site’s instrumentation, long-term datasets, and the environmental conditions that contribute to Welgegund’s global scientific significance.

About the Welgegund Atmospheric Observation Site

Located approximately 35 km from Potchefstroom, the Welgegund station was established through cooperation between the NWU and the University of Helsinki. The site was deliberately positioned in a transition zone between dry and wet regions—an area where climatic changes can be observed quickly. It is regionally representative of the South African interior and is influenced by major air pollution sources including the Johannesburg–Pretoria metropolitan area, the Vaal Triangle, the western Bushveld Complex, and the Mpumalanga Highveld.

The station provides comprehensive long-term atmospheric measurements, including meteorology, radiation, trace gases (such as sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds), and advanced aerosol data. These measurements inform climate models, air quality studies, and research on aerosol effects on the radiation balance—an area where southern Africa has limited long-term datasets.

The site was made possible through the support of local farmers, notably Mr Diederik Hatting of the farm Kromdraai, who provided land and infrastructure. Welgegund now forms part of international research networks, including projects of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and the International Global Atmospheric Chemistry (IGAC) programme, expanding access to state-of-the-art scientific data for researchers and students.