It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 36th Annual Meeting of the Catalysis Society of South Africa (CATSA 2026), which will be held from 8 to 11 November 2026 at Champagne Sports Resort in the Drakensberg. The annual CATSA meeting remains a cornerstone of our scientific community, bringing together researchers, students, and industry colleagues to present exemplary research, exchange ideas, and build the collaborations that shape the future of catalysis in South Africa and beyond.

This year’s meeting takes place under difficult circumstances following the sad passing of Prof Cornie van Sittert, who had been named Chairperson for CATSA 2026. Prof van Sittert served the catalysis community with distinction, and her leadership, commitment, and presence will be deeply missed. It is with humility that I step into this role, conscious that I am stepping into the shoes of a giant. We honour her memory with gratitude and with a commitment to delivering a conference worthy of the standard she represented.

The theme for CATSA 2026, “Catalysing Innovation in an Intelligent Age,” reflects the changing landscape in which catalysis research and innovation now take place. Catalysis continues to be central to advances in energy, synthesis, materials, environmental processes, and sustainable manufacturing. At the same time, the tools and platforms that support discovery and development are expanding, creating new opportunities for how scientific questions are approached and how innovation is translated into impact.

CATSA 2026 will showcase the plethora of contemporary catalysis, with contributions spanning fundamental and applied work across heterogeneous, homogeneous, photo-, electro-, and theoretical catalysis, alongside the growing role of biocatalysis in synthesis and the increasing emphasis on greener reactions and more sustainable processes. We are also committed to providing a strong platform for students and early-career researchers through oral and poster presentations, the student challenge, and direct engagement with leaders from academia and industry.

It is also a privilege to welcome Professor Frank Glorius (University of Münster, Germany) as the CATSA 2026 Eminent Visitor. His participation reflects the international stature of the meeting and will add significant value to the scientific programme.

On behalf of the organising committee, I invite you to join us in the Drakensberg for what promises to be a stimulating and memorable meeting. We look forward to a conference marked by excellent presentations, thoughtful discussion, new partnerships, and a shared commitment to advancing catalysis.

Dr Frans J. Smit

Chairperson, CATSA 2026 Organising Committee