RACA Journal August 2021 | Page 17

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Events and Exhibitions

ASHRAE SOUTH AFRICA CHAPTER AGM

Held on 27 May 2021 in Midrand , South Africa , this hybrid event produced great outcomes for the local chapter .

Not only was it an official occasion of the installation of the incoming board of governor ’ s ( BOG ) and committee chairs , but a significant step through the signing of a memorandum of understanding ( MoU ) with the South African Institute of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning ( SAIRAC ) and further the celebration of the establishment of a student chapter with the University of Johannesburg .

As a hybrid event , certain members participated in-person at the venue as well as other South African and international members joining the annual general meeting via a virtual platform engagement . International participants to the proceedings included Dr Ahmed Alaa Eldin Mohamed - director & regional chair , ASHRAE Region at Large , Mr Richie Mittal , the incoming DRC , Mr Ade Awujoola , the RVC Student Affairs , Mr Aakash Patel , SR II Chair , Mr Krishnan Viswanath , Mr Nitin Naik – regional vice chair , MP , ASHRAE Region at Large and other important leadership from RAL .
The proceedings started with the signing of the MoU between the two bodies that was established as a collaborated support means , particularly aimed at elements to enhance the industry , and training – that remains critical . This was signed and witnessed by presiding presidents Olu Soluade ( ASHRAE SA Chapter ) and Jaco Pieterse ( SAIRAC ) with witnessing by Richard Humphrey ( ASHRAE SA Chapter president elect ) and Robert Fox ( SAIRAC vice president and Johannesburg centre chairman ).
The meeting then followed the reading of the society ’ s code of ethics and various recognitions and welcoming of attendees locally as well as those joining from around the world . International members were also offered an opportunity to greet and say a few words and thanks was offered for everyone ’ s time as time commitment in any volunteer organisation is always a big offer .
Report backs were presented that included what the chapter had achieved over the year , notwithstanding the role the coronavirus pandemic has contributed , and included
meeting attendance , membership , financials , the engagement with other bodies such as Consulting Engineers SA ( CESA ), communication through the monthly newsletter and social media , local government engagement , initiative participation ,
All images © RACA Journal | Benjamin Brits
The signing of the MoU between ASHRAE-SA and SAIRAC . From left : Robert Fox and Jaco Pieterse ( SAIRAC ), and Olu Soluade and Richard Humphrey ( ASHRAE-SA ).
The University of Johannesburg student chapter installed at the ceremony included from left ( standing ): Khutso Ntobeng , Mathapelo Sekwai , Keamogetswe Rachel Phiri and Dr Daniel Madyira .
training and the chapter standing on points that were considered good .
The newly elected BOG and committee chairs were then named for the local chapter and the installation ceremony was performed by Dr Alaa , who noted that the South African members and chapter were very close to him . Dr Alaa was in fact present himself at the officially charter of the South Africa Chapter on 27 July 2018 .
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