On behalf of the Organising Committee, we are delighted to invite you to join us from the 28th to the 30th of May 2025 at the Premier Hotel in the vibrant coastal city of Umhlanga, Durban, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Following the highly successful inaugural conference held in 2016 at Sun City, the Organising Committee is thrilled to bring the Southern African geotechnical community together once again for this landmark event, hosted by the Geotechnical Division of the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) under the auspices of the International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE).

The 2nd SAGC 2025 promises to be a pivotal gathering for geotechnical professionals, researchers, academics, and students from across the Southern African region and beyond.

With a comprehensive scientific program, dynamic presentations, and insightful discussions, this conference will serve as a key platform for advancing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and showcasing the latest developments and innovations within the field of geotechnical engineering.

Language: The official language of the conference will be English.

Who should attend: Geotechnical engineers, engineering geologists, scientists, researchers, and practitioners working in all fields of soil and rock mechanics and geotechnical engineering should attend.

We extend our warmest welcome to participants, sponsors, and exhibitors, inviting each of you to contribute to and benefit from the unique networking and learning opportunities at this conference.

Umhlanga, known for its stunning beaches and warm hospitality, will provide an unforgettable backdrop for both professional and personal connections. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty and vibrant culture during your stay.

Join us in making the 2ndSAGC2025 an exceptional experience that builds on the foundation of excellence established in 2016. We look forward to welcoming you to Durban for what promises to be an inspiring and rewarding event.

Wamukelekile,

 

Denis Kalumba
Prof. Denis Kalumba
Chair of the Organising Committee
SW_Jacobsz
Prof. SW Jacobsz
Chair of the Scientific Committee

Scientific Committee

Name Institution
Andre Archer Jones & Wagener
Charles MacRobert Stellenbosch University
Christopher O’Donovan University College Dublin
Denis Kalumba University of Cape Town
Eduard Vorster Beal Consulting Engineering
Felix Okonta University of Johannesburg
Florian Hoertkorn Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences
Frank Ikechukwu Aneke University of Kwazulu-Natal
Frans van der Merwe Franki Africa
Gabbi Wojtowicz Zutari
George Fanourakis University of Johannesburg
Gerhard Heymann University of Pretoria
Katte, Valentine Yato University of Namibia
Laxmee Sobhee-Beetul Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Lita Nolutshungu University of Cape Town
Luis Torres Cruz University of British Columbia
Nico Vermeulen Jones & Wagener
Shiella Mudenge University of the Witwatersrand
SW Jacobsz University of Pretoria
Talia da Silva Stellenbosch University
Tiago Gaspar Imperial College
Trevor Green Jones & Wagener

Organising Committee

Name Institution / Role
Denis Kalumba University of Cape Town – Conference Chairman
Gerhard Heymann University of Pretoria – Immediate Past Conference Chairman
SW Jacobsz University of Pretoria – Scientific Committee Chair
André Archer Jones & Wagener – SAICE Geotechnical Division Chair
Linda Spies SRK Consulting – Treasurer
Frans van der Merwe Franki Africa – Secretary
Trevor Green Jones & Wagener
John Pavlakis Michael Pavlakis & Associates
Jacobus Breyl Jones & Wagener