About SFSA 2024
The Science Forum South Africa 2024 will take place from 3 to 6 December at the CSIR International Convention Centre, Pretoria, South Africa.
The Forum is proudly co-hosted by the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa (SDCfA) initiative. The SDCfA promotes science collaboration across Africa and beyond towards leveraging and connecting technology innovation with humanity. Collaboration that embeds a culture of learning – underpinned by sound governance.
The theme for the Forum is Igniting Conversations about Science – Innovation and Science for Humanity.
The objective of the Forum is to ignite vibrant discussion on the role of science in society, between all stakeholders, the scientific community, government, industry and civil society at large.
The Forum programme will comprise of opening and closing plenaries igniting conversations and discussions by and involving leading South African and international scientists, experts and thought leaders.
The SFSA 2024 brings an additional full day of panel discussions to add on the traditional one day and half of sessions. The panel discussions are structured under the following tracks:
- Youth in science technology and innovation (STI) and Africa;
- Science, technology and innovation partnerships in G20;
- Bridging science and economic diplomacy in policymaking;
- Shaping innovation – Powering the future industries;
- Global science for humanity – Agriculture, health, climate change, just transition;
- Bringing science communication and science journalism together.
An exhibition will also be hosted at the SFSA 2024, with key institutions and partners of the National System of Innovation and international exhibitors.
A series of side events in the lead up to the SFSA will be convened from 2 to 3 December 2024.
Key objectives
- To create a platform for a vibrant debate on the role of science, technology and innovation in society;
- To promote international science, technology and innovation partnerships; and
- To create a platform for key science, technology and innovation actors, including senior government leaders, academics, scientists, industry, civil society, and students to interact.
Background
Across the world nations increasingly seek to harness the potential of science as an instrument for growth and development. Science is also an integral part of the global effort to advance sustainable development. The interface between science and society and the interrogation of the role of science in society has therefore never been more critical.
The event was designed as a “public science” event open to all interested stakeholders, which provides a platform for discussion and debate on the role of science in South African and African society as well as globally.
The programme brings together more than 4 500 participants for discussion and debate, and includes an exhibition and public outreach activities.
Organising committee
ASSAf – Academy of Science of South Africa
CSIR – Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research
CSIR ICC – CSIR International Convention Centre
DHET – Department of Higher Education and Training
DIRCO – Department of International Relations and Cooperation
DSTI – Department of Science and Innovation
HSRC – Human Sciences Research Council
NACI – National Advisory Council on Innovation
NRF – National Research Foundation
SACNASP – South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions
SANSA – South African National Space Agency
SDCfA – Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa initiative
TIA – Technology Innovation Agency
Ms Vinny Pillay, DSTI
Mr Toto Matshediso, DSTI
Ms Elelwani Ramabulana, DSTI
Mr Khumotso Ramaite, DSTI
Ms Cleopatra Shilubne, DSTI
Ms Anita Mnisi, DSTI
Ms Letta Setshedi, DSTI
Mr Sizo Zwane, DSTI
Mr Thapelo Kepadisa, DSTI
Mr Kagiso Moloto, DSTI
Mr Ngwako Ramoipone, DSTI
Ms Pertunia Mphato, DSTI
Ms Mandisa Fanele, DSTI
Ms Molatelo Matlala, DSTI
Ms Taslima Viljoen, DSTI
Ms Johanetta Clark, DSTI
Ms Bridgette Matlala, DSTI
Mr Karabo Mashele, DSTI
Ms Buliswa Omodona, DSTI
Dr Tebogo Mabotha, ASSAf
Dr Sepo Hachigonta, NRF
Dr Tshiamo Motshegwa, NRF
Dr Ndumiso Cingo, CSIR
Ms Bronwen Cadle De Ponte, CSIR
Ms Asanda Sangoni, SANSA
Dr Palesa Sekhejane, HSRC
Mr Tobi Mzobe, SACNASP
Ms Precious Lukhele, NACI
