South Africa's premier community uniting biomedical engineers in academia, industry and government to drive health technology innovation across Africa.
Our BESSA
Our Foundation
Established to unite and strengthen the biomedical engineering community across South Africa, creating a powerful network of innovation and collaboration.
Global Connection
Proudly affiliated with the International Federation for Medical and Biological Engineering (IFMBE), which connects South African biomedical engineering expertise with global initiatives.
Our Home
Based at Level 7, Anatomy Building, UCT Medical School in Cape Town, where innovation meets academic excellence.
Leadership & Key Figures
Executive Leadership
Led by President Prof. Sudesh Sivarasu, a pioneering figure in biomedical engineering innovation
Committee Members
Annual rotation of scientists, engineers and healthcare professionals ensuring fresh perspectives
Dedicated Co-Chairs
Including Mladen Poluta, Former Director of Health Technology, driving strategic initiatives
Our leadership team is committed to mentorship and professional development, nurturing the next generation of biomedical engineering talent across South Africa. We seek active members to shape the future of biomedical engineering in southern Africa
Membership & Benefits
Who Can Join
Open to students, professionals and organisations involved in biomedical engineering across South Africa and beyond.
Professional Growth
Access to sought-after conferences, continuing education opportunities and a powerful network of industry experts.
Exclusive Resources
Members receive regular industry updates, research opportunities and specialised resources to advance their careers.
Events & Conferences
Annual Meeting
Join us at the BESSA Annual General Meeting during the prestigious Africa Health Exhibition, our premier annual gathering.
Workshops
Participate in practical workshops throughout the year to develop hands-on skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
Webinars
Connect virtually with thought leaders from local and international biomedical engineering communities.
Networking
Build valuable connections through regular networking sessions designed to foster collaboration and innovation.
Research & Innovation
Medical Devices
Cutting-edge research in affordable and accessible medical devices tailored to Africa's healthcare needs.
Digital Health
Pioneering solutions that leverage technology to improve healthcare delivery in diverse South African communities.
Health Infrastructure
Development of sustainable systems to strengthen medical infrastructure across South Africa and beyond.
Publications
Supporting members in publishing groundbreaking research in respected national and international journals.
Partnerships & Community Work
Partnership Organisations
Collaborations with South African and international medical engineering associations
Industrial Connections
Partnerships with healthcare technology companies across the continent
Student Outreach
Annual STEM educational initiatives that promote careers in medical engineering
Through strategic partnerships and community engagements, BESSA builds bridges between academia, industry and healthcare systems to create meaningful impact across Africa.
Contact & Get Involved
President: Prof. Sudesh Sivarasu
Delegate: Mladen Poluta, Former Director of Health Technology, President, GCEA
Level 7 Anatomy Building, UCT Medical School
Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
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Queries : BESSA@uct.ac.za
Join BESSA : Membership Forms
BESSA Constitution
Our governing document establishes BESSA as South Africa's premier biomedical engineering society. It outlines our commitment to advancing the profession through excellence, ethics, and innovation.
📗 Bylaws of BESSA
Article 1: Headquarters
The registered office shall be designated by the Executive Committee, typically at the institution of the Secretary-General.
Article 2: Membership Categories
Article 3: Dues
- Fellows: Waived
- Members & Early Career: Set annually
- Associate: 75% of full dues
- Student: 50% of full dues
- Affiliate: Tiered, based on size
Article 4: Elections
- Nominations from members or committee
- Voting conducted electronically or at the AGM
- Majority vote wins; results announced immediately
Article 5: Duties of Officers
- President: Leads society, chairs meetings, represents BESSA internationally
- Vice-President: Supports President, oversees committees
- Secretary-General: Manages administration, communications, and elections
- Treasurer: Oversees finances, prepares annual report
- Communications Officer: Manages branding, website, public relations
- Regional Reps: Liaise with members and institutions in their zones
- Student Rep: Represents student voice and initiatives
Article 6: Code of Conduct
All members must adhere to ethical, inclusive, and professional behavior standards consistent with IFMBE guidelines.
Article 7: Disputes & Liability
Disputes handled per Robert's Rules of Order. Members and officers are not personally liable.
This document complements the BESSA Constitution and provides operational guidelines for the Biomedical Engineering Society of South Africa.
BESSA: Biomedical Engineering Society of South Africa