The APA identifies the following as partners and stakeholders in advancing astronomy education and planetarium development across Africa.
Governments
A number of planetaria across the continent are supported by government, and the APA actively explores stronger collaborations with governmental institutions. Thanks to support from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) in South Africa, the APA is registered as a South African-based organisation. Collaborations include student exchange programmes, regional conferences, astro-tourism guide training, and creating content showcasing Africa's biodiversity, dark skies, and unique cultural heritage.
International Astronomical Union (IAU)
In 2019 the IAU through its Division C/Commission C2 "Communicating Astronomy with the Public" signed an MoU with the IPS to foster collaboration. Through this partnership the APA hopes to establish closer links with IAU offices including the Office for Astronomy for Development (OAD), the Office for Astronomy Outreach (OAO), and the Office for Astronomy Education (OAE) — gaining access to funding opportunities and calls for proposals that benefit APA members across the continent.
African Astronomical Society (AfAS)
There is a natural symbiosis between AfAS and the APA. While AfAS serves as a scientific astronomical organisation, the APA serves as an education and public outreach reference — each strengthening the other. APA demystifies scientific research through AfAS astronomers and makes content accessible to the general public through planetarium programming that showcases novel research developed across Africa.
International Planetarium Society (IPS)
As an IPS affiliate, the APA leverages this partnership to create stronger opportunities for African planetaria on the world stage. This includes negotiating discounted rates for African members to attend global IPS meetings, opening exchange programmes for African planetarians to access international training, negotiating service provider discounts, and promoting locally produced African content to the global planetarium community.
Future Partners & Stakeholders
The APA welcomes new partnerships with organisations that share the same vision. Future partners could include any institution, organisation, or profession focusing on science communication — particularly with emphasis on Africa's biodiversity, dark skies, and unique cultural features. Get in touch at info@africanplanetarium.org if you'd like to explore a partnership.