At a luncheon at Iziko Museums in Cape Town, Prof Suprakas Sinha Ray addressed the Science Portfolio Committee and also attended the Science and Technology Budget Vote address to the National Assembly on 24 May 2011.  This follows his recent nomination as the 50^th top chemist in the world, as announced by Thomson Reuters.

In his speech, he introduced the world of nanotechnology to the Science Portfolio Committee and the possibilities that it holds for South Africa. He also outlined the current research being conducted at the Centre and the specific projects that are being focused on.

The CSIR was well represented at the full day event. Many competence areas contributed to the exhibit and were present to answer questions by the guests. The NCNSM also had an exhibit with Mr James Ramontja manning the stand for the day.