Anatomical Society of Southern Africa


History

The Anatomical Society of Southern Africa (ASSA) founded in 1967, was born out of the Colloquia of the Anatomy Departments in the “old” Transvaal. Today, the Society represents anatomy departments from all tertiary institutions in Southern Africa (i.e. South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe); and maintains strong relations with Luanda, Angola and Lusaka, Zambia.

The Society, through its annual meetings, website and list server promotes excellence in research and education and has become the professional home for biomedical researchers and educators in South Africa focusing on anatomy in its broadest sense. In addition to being the primary educators of students in the medical and allied health disciplines, research by ASSA members encompass clinical anatomy, embryology and developmental biology, imaging, cell biology, genetics, histology, neuroscience, forensics, microscopy, anthropology, movement science and numerous other exciting and developing areas. Members are internationally recognized for their contributions to developing and maintaining anatomy as the spine of biomedical science. Membership of the Society is open to all anatomists and to others with an interest in this field. The Society welcomes all those with an interest in anatomy to attend its meetings and present the results of their scientific work or case studies. Particular support is offered to junior academic staff and students who would wish to gain experience in presentation of their work.

Objectives of ASSA

  • Promote the study of Anatomy
  • Encourage Anatomical research in Southern Africa
  • Promote the intercourse of Societies and individuals engaged in, or interested in, the science of Anatomy
  • Represent the Anatomists of Southern Africa at the international level
  • Do all such things as are or may be ancillary to, or conducive to, the advancement of Anatomical sciences and the better carrying out of such objects

Fields of interest

Anatomy

Biological Anthropology

Cell Biology

Clinical Anatomy

Embryology

Forensic Sciences

Medical Education

Veterinary Anatomy