Panel for Engineering Services and Facility Access.
Tumelo Mothupi
In plain English
SARAO is establishing a panel of South African higher education institutions for engineering services and facility access on an as-needed basis. Only South African universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges are eligible to bid.
Always check the official documentDescription
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) is establishing a panel of South African Higher Education and Training Institutions to provide engineering services and facility access. This work will be performed on an as-and-when-required basis at SARAO sites or university facilities. The scope includes systems, electronics, mechanical, and software engineering, as well as design reviews, testing, and laboratory support. The contract will run for 12 to 24 months. Bidders must be South African universities, universities of technology, or TVET colleges with proven engineering capabilities in at least two technical areas. The closing date for this tender is 21 October 2026.
What you need to qualify
- CSD registration — Registration on the Central Supplier Database — required to do business with government.
- B-BBEE certificate — A B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit confirming your contribution level.
Full requirements
- Must be a South African university, university of technology, or TVET college
- Must be registered on the Central Supplier Database (CSD)
- Must demonstrate engineering capability and relevant project experience
- Must provide a detailed facility and equipment schedule
- Must provide personnel profiles and CVs of available resources
- Must provide contactable references for previous engineering or research work
- Must hold a valid B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit
Contact & how to apply
Name: Tumelo Mothupi
Email: tmothupi@sarao.ac.za
Phone: 011-268-3423
How to apply: Quotations must be submitted via email to tmothupi@sarao.ac.za before the closing date and time.
Related tenders
Supply and Installation of Data Storage and Networking Equipment
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) invites bids for the supply, installation, and configuration of data storage servers, monitor servers, and high-speed networking equipment at the Centre for High Performance Computing (CHPC) in Rosebank, Cape Town. The project includes delivery of 42 storage servers, 5 control servers, and various networking switches and cabling, all compatible with existing infrastructure and configured with Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. The work involves physical racking and setup, with completion required within 6 months of the purchase order. Bidders must be the Original Equipment Manufacturer or an authorized reseller. The tender uses a two-envelope system for technical and price evaluation, closing on 15 October 2026 at 12:00 PM.
Electrical Contractor for SAAO Facility Services.
The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) seeks an electrical contractor for repairs, maintenance, installations, and emergency services at its Sutherland facility for three years. Responsibilities include electrical maintenance, power distribution, testing, and compliance certification. The contractor must offer 24/7 emergency response and adhere to SANS and safety standards. A site briefing is on 30 September 2026. Bidders need skilled personnel and three references from the past five years. The contract is on an as-needed basis with firm pricing.
Panel for Building Maintenance at NRF SAAO, Sutherland.
The National Research Foundation (NRF-SAAO) seeks qualified building maintenance contractors for their Sutherland site in Northern Cape. Services include construction, repair, and maintenance over three years, covering masonry, roofing, plumbing, civil works, and general repairs. Contractors must handle emergency, urgent, and normal requests promptly to maintain observatory infrastructure.
Supply and Installation of Engineering Machinery at WSU.
The Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape invites bids for the supply, installation, and commissioning of engineering machinery at Walter Sisulu University. The project includes providing a centre lathe, CNC horizontal lathe, 3D printer, and 3D laser scanner. The successful bidder must also provide electrical connections, commissioning tests, and technical training for staff. The work will take place in the Eastern Cape and must be completed within 18 weeks of the contract date. The project duration is one year, with a final report due shortly after commissioning. Bidders must be an Original Equipment Manufacturer or an authorized distributor with at least four years of relevant experience. Key personnel must hold NQF 6 qualifications in engineering fields.
Supply and delivery of a truck with crane to SARAO.
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) requires a MAN TGM 18,2540 4x4 truck with a HIAB e-X162 Hi Pro E-4 crane for the MeerKAT project. The tender includes supply, delivery, registration, a three-year service plan, and warranties. Delivery is to the SARAO Karoo Support Base in Carnarvon, Northern Cape. Bidders must be OEMs or authorized dealers. Equipment must meet safety and operational standards. Closing date is 9 October 2026 at 12:00 PM.
Supply and Installation of AWOS Equipment at Airports.
The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) seeks quotations for the supply, installation, and software upgrade of Automated Weather Observing Systems (AWOS) at OR Tambo and Bram Fischer International Airports. The project includes upgrading software to international aviation standards, installing new sensors and servers, and providing on-site training for maintenance staff. Responsibilities include testing existing infrastructure, disposing of old equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. The project duration is six months, with work performed at night to minimize disruptions, following NEC3 Engineering and Construction standards.