The SFSA 2023 programme brought together more than 4 500 participants for discussion and debate, and included an exhibition and public outreach activities.
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6 December 2023
07:00 – 15:00 Registration
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Registration is open from 07:00 in all exhibition areas.
12:00 – 15:00 Light networking lunch
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition Hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Light networking lunch available from 12:00 – 15:00 in all exhibition areas.
6 December 2023
Watch a recording of the Opening Session
15:00 – 15:05 Introduction
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Dr Phil Mjwara
Director General, Department of Science and Innovation
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15:05 – 15:10 Welcome
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Dr Thulani Dlamini
Chief Executive Officer, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
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15:10 – 15:30 Keynote address
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Bonginkosi Emmanuel “Blade” Nzimande
Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
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15:30 – 16:30 Panel discussion
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Moderator
Dr Thandi Mgwebi
Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation – Nelson Mandela University
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Speakers
Prof. Ibbo Mandaza
Executive Chairperson – Executive Chairman of the Southern African Political Economy Series Trust
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Dr Charity Wayua
Director: IBM Research Africa
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Dr Michael Makanga
Executive Director of the Global Health EDCTP3 Joint Undertaking
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Dr Heide Hackmann
Director of Future Africa
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Kevin Govender
Director: International Astronomical Union (IAU) Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD)
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Prof. Sarah Mosoetsa
Chief Executive Officer, Human Sciences Research Council
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Tinyiko Ntshongwana
Department of Science and Innovation
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16:30 – 16:50 SFSA 2023 Science Diplomacy Awards
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Bonginkosi Emmanuel “Blade” Nzimande
Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
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16:50 – 17:00 Legacy of WSF 2022: South Africa’s hosting of the 2025 World Conference of Science Journalists
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Bonginkosi Emmanuel “Blade” Nzimande
Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
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6 December 2023
17:00 Networking reception
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Networking reception from 17:00 in all exhibition areas.
7 December 2023
07:00 – 10:00 Registration
Venue: CSIR ICC (Central Foyer)
Registration is open from 07:00 to 10:00.
07:00 – 10:00 Morning refreshments
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Morning refreshments will be available from 07:00 – 10:00 in all exhibition areas.
7 December 2023
10:30 – 12:00 Mid-morning refreshments
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition Hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Mid-morning refreshments available from 10:00 – 12:00 in all exhibition areas.
12:00 – 14:30 Lunch
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition Hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Lunch available from 12:00 to 14:30 in all exhibition areas.
14:30 – 16:30 Afternoon refreshments
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition Hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Afternoon refreshments available from 14:30 – 16:30 in all exhibition areas.
7 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Harnessing blockchain for good: A global perspective
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond Auditorium)
Host: Embassy of Switzerland in SA
The panel discussion will draw on the Swiss-South Africa blockchain collaboration experience to provide a global perspective on harnessing blockchain for good. Blockchain for good refers to using blockchain technology to address social, environmental, and humanitarian challenges by promoting transparency, efficiency, trust and accountability. Examples of blockchain for good include supply chain transparency, financial inclusion, healthcare data management, voting systems, environmental conservation, food security, human rights, and renewable energy trading.
Moderator: Yaliwe Soko, United Africa Blockchain Association
Speakers:
11:00 – 12:30 Pitfalls of AI
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond Auditorium)
Host: National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)
AI is already used in a multitude of applications and is enabling very useful technologies. However, there are no firmly established ethical codes, standards and regulations yet, there is a limited number of (highly skilled) people who can program for AI technologies, and AI will not assist to create sufficient employment in the economy. There is also concern that AI may render humans useless, influence and/or dominate them. These are some of the issues that were addressed at the previous two events held by the NSTF: Pitfalls of Artificial Intelligence (18–19 May 2023) – NSTF and UNGA78 Science Summit Panel: Pitfalls of AI 15 September 2023 – NSTF. The discussions raised multiple questions and we want to provide platforms for further discussion. How should AI be used in a manner that is responsible? What is the way forward to agree on regulation and codes of conduct/ethics. What can be done to equip people to be more involved? How do we ensure that humans remain in control, and are held accountable? This session will provide the public with information and raise awareness of these technologies. From the discussions we aim to find a way forward and possible salutary recommendations of the negative impacts of AI.
Moderator: Jansie Niehaus, National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)
Speakers:
11:00 – 12:30 Plotting a regulatory pathway for heritable human genome editing
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF III)
Host: University of Cape Town
The use of gene editing (CRISPR/cas9, Talen or prime editing) is already being applied in many fields. Only in the last month has the use of gene editing to address sickle cell anaemias been approved in some jurisdictions. Gene editing of plants is fast becoming a major tool in the production of new varieties in many countries, and the EU is proposing to change its regulatory structures to enable gene editing. Non-heritable therapeutic gene editing in humans will soon be seen as an ethical necessity, as there are many diseases, primarily those resulting from natural mutations in the DNA, which can benefit from modifications of some cells within the body allowing the production (for example) of normal proteins to supplant disease driving variants. In most cases therapeutic use will be expensive in human and financial terms. All medical procedures carry risk. Is there a fundamental difference between current therapeutic procedures and those that will become available? There is a legitimate concern about changing the germline so as to ‘correct’ mutations that have occurred, or even to modify an individual in order to enhance particular characteristics. We have to consider the risks to the individual and to any offspring that these procedures may entail, and possibly weight these risks against the benefits. There is a need for a regulatory process. How should heritable gene editing be regulated?
Moderator: Prof. Donrich Thaldar, University of KwaZulu-Natal
Speakers:
13:30 – 15:00 The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the field of medicine
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF III)
Host: Siza Telehealth (Pty) Ltd
Our session will explore the fundamental role artificial intelligence and predictive tools play in medical field. The session will explore image analysis, AI powered diagnosis tools, such as radiology and pathology AI, that they have demonstrated exceptional accuracy in detecting anomalies, expediting diagnoses and enhancing treatment planning. The session will delve into real-world examples where AI has significantly improved the efficiency and accuracy of radiologists and pathologists, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes. Moving beyond diagnosis, the session will explore how AI is reshaping treatment protocols and drug discovery processes. Through the analysis of vast datasets, AI algorithms identify potential drug candidates, predict patient responses and optimize treatment regimes. Attendees will gain insights into AI-driven drug discovery platforms and the potential for personalized medicine, resulting in more effective and tailored therapies for patients.
Moderator: Nazareen Ebrahim, Naz International Consulting
Speakers:
13:30 – 15:00 Novel approaches to scientific visualisation in the era of big data
Venue: CSIR Club
Host: Inter-University Institute for Data Intensive Astronomy
With the advent of ever-sophisticated facilities and advanced technological capabilities, data complexity, data storage, data visualisation and other multi-sensory tools or methods, as well as technical training, present the scientific community – in every discipline – with new challenges. In astronomy, for example, as the data produced by digital receivers become larger and more complex, driven by the next-generation petabyte projects such as the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), it is essential to migrate to new technologies to facilitate student training, scientific analysis and exploration. Bioinformatics, health science, and engineering, to name a few, share similar requirements as technology improves and the need for new interactive learning platforms increases. In this special session, we will explore some of these challenges and showcase some of the solutions that are currently under study or deployed in South Africa to address these issues.
Moderator: Dr Lucia Marchetti, University of Cape Town
Speakers:
15:30 – 17:00 The impact of generative AI on cybersecurity - CISOs’ Corner
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond Auditorium)
Host: CSIR
Generative AI is a double-edged sword that can be used to develop more innovative cybersecurity solutions that are effective at detecting, containing and preventing the most sophisticated and stealth cyber-attacks. Yet, in the hands of cyber threat actors, generative AI can be weaponized to create sophisticated and AI-powered cyber-attacks that can evade intrusion detection systems with 99% accuracy and remain undetected for extended dwell-time living-off-the-land. Join the panel discussion which will comprise of a team of professional and seasoned CISOs from diverse backgrounds and verticals to share their valuable insights, explore the effective of AI-powered solutions, and examine real-world examples on this very hot topical issue.
Moderator: Dr Jabu Mtsweni, CSIR
Speakers:
7 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Natural and man-made disasters coming soon near you: A spotlight on floods and forest fires
Venue: CSIR ICC (Amber II Room)
As COP28 ends in Dubai and numerous pledges are made, this session brings together leading scientists, science advisers and activists to explain the causes and human-life, socio-economic and environmental impacts of natural and man-made disasters. The case-studies under the spotlight are floods and forest fires.
Extreme heat waves are already five-times more likely today than they were 150 years ago. How this ‘fire-climate loop’ is expected to exacerbate as the planet warms will be highlighted, particularly in Africa. Unique insights into fire mitigation strategies in Canada will be given, where in the first half of 2023 alone, a record 9.5 million hectares of land was burned, an area equivalent to three times the size of Rwanda. From enormous burns in Greece to catastrophic fires in Hawaii, 2023 is on course for record fire activity.
Flood damage has also quadrupled since 2000, affecting nearly one third of the world’s population, more than any other peril. Fires aside, deforestation by logging and land clearing with 15 billion trees felled annually is a major root cause of flooding. From torrential rain causing extensive damage in New York’s Hudson Valley, to 12000 people confirmed dead and 10000 still missing after dams burst in Libya, or the 2022 KwaZulu-Natal flash floods that killed over 300 people, speakers argue that global attention to the harms caused by these local, national and regional flood events can be little more than a postcode lottery.
This expert panel and audience debate aims to not only expose the problems, but to examine the solutions. For example, the crucial role of more globally-balanced science reporting of catastrophic weather-related events and their unparalleled human, financial and environmental damage on a scale never before recorded, will be critiqued. Equally, a key component of this session is to expose the limitations of today’s earth observation sciences and risk-management strategies. From conservation technologies to enviro-tech start-ups, SFSA delegates will be given unrivalled insights into next generation satellite and ground-sensor technologies for better detection and response.
Elna Schütz (South Africa)
Freelance Science Editor; Member, South African Science Journalists’ Association (SASJA).
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Prof. Rémi Quirion (Canada)
Inaugural Chief Executive Officer, Fonds de recherche du Québec.
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Prof. Jerome Singh (South Africa)
Scientific Advisory Group on Emergencies (SAGE), Academy of Sciences of South Africa (ASSAf).
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Dr. Prudentia Zikalala (South Africa)
Project Program Coordinator at UNESCO Be Resilient South Africa: Addressing Climate Risk and Building Adaptive Capacity in Biosphere Reserves (UNESCO Multisectoral Regional Office for Southern Africa: Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia & Zimbabwe). View bio
Topher White (USA)
Conservation Technologist & Founder of Enviro-Tech Start-up, Rainforest Connection
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Prof. Rémi Quirion (Canada)
Inaugural Chief Executive Officer, Fonds de recherche du Québec.
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Aidan Gilligan
CEO, SciCom – Making Sense of Science
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09:00 – 10:30 Is innovation and sustainable development needed to avert a climate crisis?
Venue: CSIR Club
Host: University of KwaZulu-Natal
Technology innovation is established as an enabler of economic growth. However, the potential of technology innovation to mitigate climate change whilst simultaneously promoting inclusive, sustainable development has not been fully explored.
This session will bring together thought leaders from the public and private sector in the fields of technology innovation, inclusive and sustainable development, grassroots entrepreneurship, climate change, ESG (Environment, Society, Governance), and policy formulation to share their insights on how STI can be an enabler of climate change mitigation whilst promoting inclusive, sustainable development. The moderator will briefly introduce the speakers and the topic ‘Is innovation and sustainable development needed to avert a climate crisis?’
Moderator: Dr Ereck Chakauya, AUDA NEPAD SANBio
Speakers:
11:00 – 12:30 Achieving global resilience through international science partnerships: Building sustainable food systems
Venue: CSIR ICC (Amber II Room)
Host: British High Commission – Pretoria
Recognising the increasing breadth and depth of Africa-UK science collaboration, this interactive dialogue session will bring together experts from Africa and the UK to share learning on the opportunities and challenges for building sustainable food systems by harnessing ST&I to enable inclusive and sustainable development. Globally sustainable food systems face three core challenges: ensuring food and nutrition security for growing populations, supporting the livelihoods of millions of people working in food supply chains, and doing so in environmentally sustainable ways (OECD). This moderated dialogue session will consider a variety of perspectives on the role of international ST&I cooperation for sustainable food systems, security and nutrition by considering several key questions, including how to:
Moderator:
Leanne Jones
British High Commission
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Speakers:
Dr Babagana Ahmadu
United Nation’s Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO)
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Tiwonge Machiwenyika
World Food Programme (WFP)
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Dr Petronella Chaminuka
Agricultural Research Council (ARC)
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Dr Maneshree Jugmohan-Naidu
Department of Science and Innovation
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Andrea Bernadtzeder
Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)
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Dr Essa Suleman
CSIR
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Dr Vuyisile Phehane
Technology Innovation Agency (TIA)
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Dr Nhlanhla Msomi
Africa Bio
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13:30 – 15:00 Empowering change: enhancing global change research impact on society for sustainable development through partnerships
Venue: CSIR ICC (Amber II Room)
Host: South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON)
SAEON is striving to enhance impact pathways to bridge the gap between knowledge and societal impact. A critical success factor in achieving this strengthening partnerships along the value chain. The session thus directly addresses the theme: “Igniting Conversations About Science – People, Partnerships, Priorities for the Decadal Plan”. In this session, we engage with stakeholders and society to identify actions and partnerships required to enhance societal impact through collaboration from the highest policy level, to the communities on the ground. To focus discussions, we use the lens of water security in the context of guiding sustainable development in rural communities.
Moderator: Tony Swemmer, SAEON
Speakers:
15:30 – 17:00 What dirty waters can tell you – Local wastewater-surveillance supporting global public health
Venue: CSIR ICC (Amber II Room)
Host: JRC
During the pandemic, wastewater-based surveillance emerged as a valuable tool in monitoring public health. By analyzing wastewater samples, scientists can detect and track the presence of various substances, including re-emerging and novel pathogens, drugs, or emerging issues, including anti-microbial resistance. This approach provides a non-invasive and cost-effective way to gather population-level data on disease outbreaks, public health status and environmental contamination. Despite being two completely different settings, South Africa and the EU emerged as global leaders in developing this innovative tool as an integral part of better preparedness and working together to learn from each other on equal terms. This session explores the potential of wastewater-based surveillance to inform public health interventions, improve surveillance systems, and support evidence-based decision-making as part of a global alliance. It is a fascinating, innovative, promising field that deserves further exploration and investment.
Moderator: Dr Bernd Manfred Gawlik, Joint Research Centre (JRC)
Speakers:
7 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Transforming higher education for a sustainable future
Venue: CSIR ICC (Emerald Auditorium)
Host: Embassy of Finland in South Africa
The session by Finnish and South African partners discusses the changing role of teachers in higher education and especially the role of teacher education in the context of sustainable future. Enhancing sustainable development in the education sector requires close cooperation between the providers of education, universities, schools, and working life. Teacher educators and schoolteachers can no longer act alone and as an authority, but learning at universities and at school should take place through student-centered pedagogies and in authentic environments. Moreover, the changing role of teacher educators, teachers, pre-service teachers, students and working life partners is needed. In the panel three practical cases are introduced and discussed. The panel will discuss how the changing roles of researchers, teacher educators and teachers are reflected in teacher education, working life cooperation and the promotion of sustainability in higher education.
Moderator: Dr Elizabeth Henning, University of Johannesburg
Speakers
11:00 – 12:30 Leveraging higher education as agents for change in a fast-transitioning labour market for the green economy
Venue: CSIR ICC (Emerald Auditorium)
Host: Circular South Africa, and the African Circular Economy Network
A global green economy has been estimated to create additional 24 million jobs, which could replace the 6 million jobs that will be lost due to a transition. The global shifts towards sustainability will also impact the current labour force as the energy sector in South Africa demonstrates (coal to renewable) and the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). However, it is rather unclear what the future workforce will look like as novel business models are still being developed and implemented. In this session a panel of stakeholders will take a deep dive and consider practical ways in which PSET stakeholders can respond to the complex challenges of the 21st century such as climate change, fast-transforming labour markets, in the backdrop of green growth and recovery.
Moderator: Huba Boshoff, Nuffic Southern Africa
Speakers:
11:00 – 12:30 How can physics as a basic science support the DSI decadal plan
Venue: CSIR Club
Host: South African Institute of Physics
South Africa has great potential to use science and technology in addressing socio-economic development. However, a shortage of human capital in basic sciences hinders this potential. Scanning the various District Development Model (DDM) reports, one finds that all districts face challenges linked to a shortage of physics-underpinned skills and capabilities. The DDM is a 25-year plan; hence, the human capital required to provide district-level science and technology solutions must be addressed from ECD up. In 25 years, the ECD class of today will be scientist and engineers.
Moderator: Prof. Igle Gledhill, University of the Witwatersrand
Speakers:
13:30 – 15:00 Empowering the future: Human-centric competency development in the age of technological innovation
Venue: CSIR ICC (Emerald Auditorium)
Host: University of Pretoria
This session aims to explore and redefine our approaches to training, education, and skills development, emphasising the critical role of human elements in adapting to future demands. In line with this, we will delve into the transformative potential of tertiary institutions (including universities) in preparing graduates for the dynamic job market, and the imperative of continuous upskilling and innovative training initiatives in response to changing career landscapes. Lastly, we will explore the role of green talent in the future of work, acknowledging its increasing relevance in a sustainability-conscious world. Through these discussions, the session will provide insights and strategies for building a future-ready workforce, underscoring the importance of human-centric competency development in an era dominated by technological innovation.
Moderator: Dr Sean Kruger, University of Pretoria
Speakers:
15:30 – 17:00 Promoting diverse career pathways for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers
Venue: CSIR ICC (Emerald Auditorium)
Host: Department of Science and Innovation
The session will provide an opportunity to discuss the findings of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Global Science Forum (GSF) report on Promoting Diverse Career Pathways for Doctoral and Postdoctoral Researchers. The report identifies policies and practices to promote diverse careers, flexible career trajectories and ultimately better-quality research and innovation across different economic and social sectors. The South African Experts who participated in the project will also share the main lessons learned from his engagement in this work. The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) will join the discussion to provide and African perspective. At representative from the business/private sector will also join the discussion. It is expected that the discussions will trigger a national debate on how the recommendations that came out of the report can be translated into the South African context.
Moderator: Dr Sepo Hachigonta, National Research Foundation (NRF)
Speakers:
15:30 – 17:00 Science museums, parks and discovery centres impact in STI in Africa and beyond
Venue: CSIR ICC (Jade Room)
Host: Education Global Network and Science Centre
Science museums, parks, and discovery centers are not mere repositories of artifacts and exhibits; they are dynamic hubs of knowledge that play a pivotal role in advancing science, technology, and innovation in Africa and the global south. These institutions serve as catalysts for change, attracting and empowering children and youth, fostering dialogue, promoting public engagement, sharing scientific facts in simple and relatable ways, inspiring innovations, encouraging parents’ engagement, providing leisure and recreation opportunities, changing attitudes, and acting as valuable resources for training institutions.
Moderator: Dr Shadrack Mukansi, South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA)
Speakers:
7 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Water, energy and waste - the next frontier for industry investment and adoption of innovation
Venue: CSIR ICC (Ruby Auditorium)
Host: Department of Science and Innovation
Join us in discussing the role of industry in innovation adoption. The state of progress in Science Technology and Innovation (STI) is an indicator of projected economic growth. Considering declining investments and low levels of technological dynamism, stakeholder participation, new areas of growth, job creation and sustainability needaddressing. The aim of this session is to:
Moderator: Sunita Kalan, Department of Science and Innovation
Speakers:
09:00 – 10:30 Redefining business growth: embracing circularity and innovative thinking for a sustainable future
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF III)
Host: The Village Well
In the dynamic landscape of developing nations, the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) takes center stage, offering both unique challenges and promising opportunities. Within this context, private sector engagement emerges as a critical catalyst for progress, fueling economic growth, job creation, and innovation – all indispensable pillars of sustainable development. However, the discourse surrounding sustainability often becomes a battleground between private sector proponents and sustainability advocates. This polarisation, often exacerbated by oversimplified narratives from climate and environmental activists, leaves little room for constructive dialogue. Programme sub-topics:
Moderator: Gontse Molelekeng-Adeniran, The Village Well
Speakers:
11:00 – 12:30 Approaches for innovative capacity building programmes to support South Africa’s just energy transition
Venue: CSIR ICC (Ruby Auditorium)
Host: National Research Foundation
South Africa is faced with critical energy insecurities. This is further compounded by the country’s ailing coal industry which contributes to global warming and other pollution-related health challenges. In response, South Africa is increasingly playing a key role in facilitating multi-sectoral partnership programmes aimed at accelerating the just energy transition. While there are several research and skills development programmes, these are not always responsive to industry and entrepreneurship opportunities. It is within this context that the National Research Foundation (NRF), Sasol Limited (Sasol), Department and Science and Innovation (DSI) and Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) have joined hands to support and explore innovation, research, and skills programmes opportunities in response to just energy transition. The session brings together key stakeholders to discuss ways to better respond and contribute to the energy transition agenda, as well as collaborative approaches to strengthen support for research and skills development projects that will address identified challenges aligned with industry energy needs.
Moderator: Refilwe Mashigo, National Research Foundation
Speakers:
13:30 – 15:00 An African synchrotron light source - an igniter of African industry, science diplomacy, and STI education
Venue: CSIR ICC (Ruby Auditorium)
Host: African Light Source Foundation
The goal is an African Light Source (AfLS) to drive African Innovation, African Wealth, African Science Leadership, African Science Diplomacy towards a Pan-African consciousness. We further ask, what are the most important challenges? We see the 17 UN SDGs, and also those challenges where Africa has a particular interest for a solution. Then, what is the Science that can address those challenges? Then, what is the (initially) single large continental scale infrastructure with its many child regional infrastructures that best support this Science? We find the answer, to the foregoing, for Innovation, for Capacity Building, for addressing the Challenges, leading ultimately to African Innovation and African Wealth, is the Synchrotron, or the Advanced Light Source (AdLS), and all its regional feeder and ancillary infrastructures. In this session, we demonstrate that the Advanced light Source will be transformative for the Continent.
Moderator: Dr Graham Daniels, South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA)
Speakers:
15:30 – 17:00 Opportunities and challenges for innovation-led socio-economic development in South Africa
Venue: CSIR ICC (Ruby Auditorium)
Host: SA Research Chair in Industrial Development
The proposed SFSA 2023 parallel session is aimed at bringing together and sharing research findings on the contribution of STI to socio-economic development, particularly from a South African point of view. This is critical for appropriate evidence-based policy responses. The parallel session will also present research covering issues around innovation leadership enablers and how this influences socio-economic development; and finally, set an agenda to develop measurement frameworks and indicators and targets (in respect of each of the three Decadal Plan STI priorities) that are important in effective implementation of the Decadal Plan and innovation in South Africa. The parallel session aims to propose distinctive focus on South African and developmental questions at its core.
The session is of interest to researchers and policymakers. By connecting innovation with various socio-economic domains, we hope that the session will attract Forum participants with interest in health, industrialisation, energy, and other socio-economic domains.
Moderator: Prof. Alexis Habiyaremye, South African Research Chair in Industrial Development – University of Johannesburg
Speakers:
7 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Conversations with funders
Venue: CSIR ICC (Crystal/Garnet Room)
Host: Aphrike Research
Funding for research and development plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge, tackling global challenges, promoting cultural exchange, building research capacity, and driving economic growth. However, African researchers often face difficulties in grant writing, such as not meeting the requirements for innovation and communication, lack of understanding of gender equality, inclusivity, and intersectionality, and not knowing how to use impact measurement tools. Additionally, researchers struggle to translate their findings into policy and action. Therefore, Aphrike Research is organizing a session to bring together various players in the research ecosystem, including funders, researchers, policymakers, and the private sector, to discuss and address these challenges. The aim is to bridge the gap between funders, policymakers, and researchers and increase the usefulness and application of research output for the betterment of society. Aphrike Research strives to provide researchers, research managers, the private sector, research students, and policymakers with collaboration platforms and opportunities to engage in African research.
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Moderator: Rebecca Sibiya, Extraordinaire Ripples
Speakers:
11:00 – 12:30 Science transformation - working towards shared equipment platforms and networks to facilitate capacity development and leverage innovative research development in the African continent
Venue: CSIR ICC (Crystal/Garnet Room)
Host: African Academy of Science
Global shifts towards open knowledge and infrastructure sharing are driving initiatives to align African researchers with global expertise and facilities. To mitigate the underlying anthropogenic processes, political action is overdue and should be informed by science drivers. The science community is increasingly called on to collaborate in areas such as the archival of molecular samples and sharing infrastructure such as biobanks. These are considered “future-making and memory institutions” as they provide for the integrity, authenticity, availability, and or confidentiality of molecular and/or viable samples and associated data for current and future research. Consortiums and big equipment platforms or networks have been established that provide access to, training and collaborative research incentives. The purpose of this forum is to unpack possible networks and initiatives that can potentially be linked to support capacity development and infrastructure sharing to enhance African Science Excellence.
Moderator: Prof. Lise Korsten, African Academy of Science
Co-moderator: Prof. Kenneth Ozoemena, University of the Witwatersrand
Speakers:
13:30 – 15:00 Circular economy and waste management: drivers for sustainable infrastructure development in Africa
Venue: CSIR ICC (Crystal/Garnet Room)
Host: Tshwane University of Technology
The session “Circular Economy and Waste Management: Drivers for Sustainable Infrastructure Development in Africa” discusses the potential of the circular economy model in dealing with the challenges posed by Africa’s fast-paced urbanisation, population growth, and industrialisation. Africa is the fastest urbanising continent, expecting to double waste generation by 2050. The session suggests that the circular economy, which encourages waste repurposing, recycling, and reuse, can drive sustainable infrastructure development, mitigate environmental degradation, and create economic opportunities. The session will delve into topics such as redefining waste from a circular economy perspective, current obstacles and opportunities in waste management, successful waste-to-infrastructure projects, the role of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) in supporting the transition to a circular economy, and policy pathways for advocating circular economy principles and sustainable waste management in Africa. The discussion contributes to the broader theme of enhancing STI capabilities for Africa’s development.
Moderator: Prof. Williams Kehinde Kupolati, Tshwane University of Technology
Speakers:
13:30 – 15:00 Astronomy for a better world
Venue: CSIR ICC (Jade Room)
Host: Office of Astronomy for Development
In this session we explore how the multiple facets of astronomy can be used as a tool for sustainable development. Modern astronomy tests the limits of our human ingenuity when it comes to developing the tools and methods with which to understand the universe and its contents. Yet, we also develop connections with astronomy through our cultures, our ideas on philosophy and our appreciation of the beauty and elegance of the night sky. In this way, astronomy can form a powerful nexus between curiosity-driven science and socioeconomic development. This session will journey from the global context towards a focus on Africa, discussing the societal impact of science in general and then astronomy in particular, highlighting key opportunities for the African continent in particular.
Moderator: Kevin Govender, Office of Astronomy for Development
Speakers:
15:30 – 17:00 Future implications of the UNESCO recommendation on open science: The case of sub-Saharan Africa
Venue: CSIR ICC (Crystal/Garnet Room)
Host: Department of Science and Innovation
On 21 November 2021, 193 members of UNESCO adopted a Recommendation on Open Science. The UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science is the first international standard setting instrument on open science. It encourages UNESCO member states to promote a shared understanding of open science and set out diverse paths to achieving it; develop an enabling policy environment for open science; invest in infrastructure and activities that contribute to open science; invest in training, education, digital literacy and capacity-building to support open science; foster a culture of open science and align incentives to support it; promote innovative approaches for open science at all stages of the scientific process and encourage international and multi-stakeholder cooperation in the context of open science to reduce gaps in technology and knowledge. The session will therefore assess progress registered by sub-Saharan Africa countries in developing Open Science policies and investing in infrastructure required for open science to flourish. Speakers will also share insights into what kind of skills set the sub-Saharan African region needs for achieving the aspirations of the UNESCO Recommendation on Open. The session will conclude by proposing ways in which sub-Saharan Africa can collaborate to advance open science.
Moderator: Dr Tshiamo Motshegwa, National Research Foundation (NRF)
Speakers:
7 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 The SKA Observatory: new perspectives, new opportunities for Africa (SKAO)
Venue: CSIR ICC (Onyx Room)
Host: Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO)
Construction of the Square Kilometre Array is now well under way in Australia and South Africa. During 2024 the first dishes and antennas will be commissioned, and from around 2026 the first early science will be emerging. Full access to the astronomy community will emerge soon after. The science promise of the SKA is dramatic, changing our understanding of the Universe, and its reach will be broad; genuinely global in nature, organised through the world’s newest scientific intergovernmental organisation.
The SKA is special in other regards. Already through the project and other initiatives in radio astronomy, such as South Africa’s world-leading MeerKAT telescope, the impact is stretching beyond science into society, training young people, developing new science and engineering communities, and using astronomy and science as a driver for positive change.
The aim of gradually expanding the scope and footprint of the SKA telescope from South Africa across the continent has been a primary driver for the development of the infrastructure since its inception. Although the focus right now is on delivering the first phase of SKA and its science, on schedule and on budget, it is time to explore how SKA’s future might look. Specifically, it is time to review and begin to revitalise the interest across Africa, where in 2024, the IAU General Assembly will meet in Cape Town, bringing the world of astronomy to Africa, and in parallel SKAO’s Council will develop an ‘Africa Strategy’. This session will consider the current exciting progress being made in construction, review the impact potential for Africa in the longer term from involvement in SKAO, and explore what actions are needed now and in the coming period to lay the ground for the SKA across Africa.
Moderator: Simon Berry, SKAO
Speakers:
Conversation and responses:
09:00 – 10:30 Research for society: How social challenges can most effectively benefit from exchanges of best practice and international partnerships in science
Venue: CSIR ICC (Jade Room)
Host: Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS)
Science, technology and innovation are key factors for the progress of our societies and in meeting the major societal challenges. The urgent need to address those challenges provides a powerful source of motivation for the scientific community, enabling researchers to transcend disciplinary boundaries and encourage new exchanges and collaborations. This thematic session will provide an opportunity to exchange best practice in bringing science closer to society and common goals, through partnerships. It is designed to bring together representatives from institutions who are committed to federating new ways of working together, closer to the expectations of our research teams and society at large.
Moderator: Dr Christelle Roy, CNRS
Speakers:
11:00 – 12:30 Towards equitable and sustainable cooperation for intra-African and global partnerships for impactful research collaboration
Venue: CSIR ICC (Onyx Room)
Host: University of Mpumalanga
Research collaborations have a high potential for improving research quality and, when aligned with the development priorities of African countries, have significant potential for research impact. However, equitable and sustainable collaborations are needed if this potential is to be realised, including through multilateral and multisector partnerships. Two case studies will be used to interrogate sustainable approaches to intra-African collaboration for impact, including perspectives from the private sector and science academies.
Moderator: Dr Aldo Stroebel, University of Mpumalanga
Speakers:
13:30 – 15:00 Global health EDCTP3: Driving sustainable development through health research and innovation
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond Auditorium)
Host: Global Health EDCTP3
This session will encourage discussion around the current global health research landscape in Africa and the role of partnerships such as Global Health EDCTP3 to drive sustainable development through health research and innovation. The session will be a panel discussion with speakers representing different health research stakeholders who will debate around the following questions:
Moderator: Dr Michael Makanga, Global Health EDCTP3 Joint Undertaking
Speakers:
13:30 – 15:00 Statecraft in Africa: The critical role of science advice and science diplomacy
Venue: CSIR ICC (Onyx Room)
Science focuses on producing new knowledge while diplomacy is concerned with shaping the environment to enable that knowledge to be produced and used both for profit and as global public goods. Some argue that despite what a growing number of hobbyists might think, there is no such thing as ‘science diplomacy’, just diplomacy. What is sure is that it is a highly competitive world of winners and losers, heroes and villains. This panel looks exclusively at what is going on across ‘Africa’.
Speakers will give concrete examples of how African countries large and small, developed and developing, express a clear interest in implementing science diplomacy through politics. This is for the purpose of representation, cooperation, resolving disputes, improving systems, and securing the right to science for citizens and vulnerable populations. The same applies to global companies and institutions operating in a complex matrix of technical and relational challenges. That said, they will argue that it is not good enough to simply incorporate rising scientific communities, such as Africa, into a Western-orientated structure. It is naïve to think that ‘training-Africa-up’ will do. Africans want to have their traditions understood and their voices heard. A clear message from this session is that science is not just a reward from the West, but an instrument to harness the continent’s own potential as full and active partners in global knowledge partnerships, bringing solutions to the table from Africa.
But how do we get there? Issues to be discussed include how to build greater inclusiveness and dialogue between African states and if specific ‘African’ or ‘regional’ science diplomacy models do exist, how do we tap into them? Crucially, statecraft-building across Africa today is heavily dependent on how science is viewed. Tensions between science-based and values and interest-based arguments are deep-rooted. Attitudes and perceptions about science, ranging from issues at the nexus of religion and politics, and competitiveness and immigration, may sometimes seem antithetical to science-based progress. Furthermore, the emergence of new global challenges from cross-border energy supply, preventable diseases linked to lifestyle, shifting geo-political environments, and the linkages between health and ageing, trade, intellectual property, and human rights etc. present today’s stakeholders with a whole new set of issues. Speakers will equally examine the disproportionate role of ‘health diplomacy’ in Africa whereby not only governments, but often well-oiled charities and the third sector hold immense sway.
Milica Momčilović (Serbian)
President, World Federation of Science Journalists (WFSJ); Coordinator, World Conference of Science Journalists 2025, Pretoria; Editor, Science Programming, Radio Television Serbia (RTS). View bio
Prof. Rémi Quirion (Canada)
Inaugural Scientific Director, Institute of Neuroscience, Mental Health & Addictions, Canadian institute of Health Research. View bio
Prof. Mammo Muchie (Ethiopia)
DSI-NRF SARChI Chair in Innovation Studies, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), and Chief Editor of a new TUT Journal of Creativity, Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship (JCISE). View bio
Prof. Rémi Quirion (Canada)
Chief Scientist of Quebec; President, International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA); Member, Pan-African Academies of Science. View bio
Aidan Gilligan
CEO, SciCom – Making Sense of Science
View bio
15:30 – 17:00 Innovation and support perspectives across borders: Implications for economic diplomacy
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF I)
Host: Department of Science and Innovation
The intended session will explore how science diplomacy can anchor the growth of the international private sector investment in science, technology, and innovation in South Africa, contributing to the economic diplomacy. The session will also highlight perspectives from different role players in the sectors who contribute to the compelling value proposition for the support to innovation.
Moderator: Dr Konanani Rashamuse, Department of Science and Innovation
Speakers:
7 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Understanding the role of science journalism: insights for scientists
Venue: CSIR ICC (Amethyst Room)
Host: South African Science Journalists Association
News headlines are more and more dominated by extreme weather events, emergencies, food prices/shortages and the like, and scientists are increasingly being approached for comment. But scientists are not at home in the world of media; they don’t know how it functions, and how to assess the quality of a media outlet and/or journalist.
Moderator: Mandi Smallhorne, South African Science Journalists Association (SASJA)
Speakers:
11:00 – 12:30 The lack of science coverage in the media and its implications for the future of science, technology, and innovation
Venue: CSIR ICC (Amethyst Room)
Host: Science Wise Show
The session titled The Lack of Science Coverage in The Media and it’s Impact on The Future of Technology and Innovation in South Africa and Africa At Large.
The discussion will be looking at why we are not seeing much of the sciences in the general media , it will also be interrogating the factors which contribute to that , such as funding , shortage of skills, and many possible contributing factors, it will also be looking at the narrative which we’d like to have told about sciences , and ways to increase the presence of the sciences in the future .
Moderator: Ntsikelelo Ngaleka, Vow FM
Speakers:
15:30 – 17:00 Will generative AI such as ChatGPT ever replace science journalists?
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF III)
Host: World Federation of Science Journalists
The session will examine how emerging AI tools such as Bard and ChatGPT are impacting on science journalism in Africa. The discussion will focus on both sides of the debate, looking at opportunities for AI in the newsroom, and exploring the threat that AI poses to trust in science through its capacity for disinformation, and ultimately the risk to the jobs of science journalists in the continent. The session will draw out the broader implications of generative AI on public perceptions of science, and the effect this will have on society at large.
Moderator: Edwin Naidu, SciDev.Net
Speakers:
15:30 – 17:00 Empower, engage, enrich: Unleashing the power of citizen science
Venue: CSIR ICC (Amethyst Room)
Host: SA Population Research Infrastructure
Citizen science is a powerful and collaborative approach to scientific research, but it also comes with various challenges and considerations. Some key issues that need to be carefully considered in the context of citizen science include data quality and accuracy; ethical concerns like data privacy and ownership; accessibility and inclusivity of people a diversity of backgrounds; designing of the study; and maintaining scientific rigor. Conducting research (and working) in communities requires us to engage them and sustain their levels of interest. Citizen science offers an opportunity to build and maintain trust in communities. It is also an opportunity to co-create knowledge. It is also a conduit for effectively communicating scientific findings. Harnessing the power of citizen science is an opportunity to make valuable contributions to scientific research.
Moderator: Dr Andre Rose, South African Population Research Infrastructure Network
Speakers:
7 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Understanding the role of humanities in science policy uptake and science diplomacy in Africa
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF II)
Host: Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC)
The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) will host a panel discussion focusing on the role of disciplines such as ethics, history, sociology and cultural studies in developing, understanding and implementing scientific policy in, and for Africa. Led by the HSRC’s Africa Institute of South Africa (AISA), the session will explore the social consequences, ethical issues, and cultural settings of scientific programmes and diplomatic initiatives in Africa. The insights generated will enrich understanding and drive future policy frameworks that combine humanities and science, eventually contributing to Africa’s growth and global collaborations.
Moderator: Lumka Luzipho, HSRC
Speakers:
11:00 – 12:30 Demonstrating impact in research evaluation and significance for academic career development
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF II)
Host: Universities South Africa (USAf)
Current international trends in evaluating research and demonstrating its impact are key to the development of a relevant and inclusive national research system for South Africa, as well as to international recognition of South African research and researchers. The session will explore changes in the ways in which research quality and importance are regarded, including expectations from stakeholders, the call to address global and local challenges, and the emphasis on transdisciplinary approaches. The discussion will focus on developing frameworks to assess research impact and the effects of long term assessment system on recruitment and career progression.
Moderator: Prof. Stephanie Burton, University of Pretoria
Speakers:
11:30 – 12:30 South-North partnerships in social and health science: Innovations for uplifting people (subtheme Shaping Humanity)
Venue: CSIR ICC (Jade Room)
Host: Embassy of Finland in SA
This panel by Finnish and South African partners demonstrates innovations from health and social sciences, which have impact particularly among the most vulnerable in the global South. These innovations include novel methods in education, research and practice. What are the novel ways in which social policy innovations travel globally? Within South-North partnerships, how are we able to see universality and learn from what is different between contexts? How do new virtual tools such as the collaborative online international learning (COIL) allow disadvantaged students to gain international experience? What are the potentials of the ‘triple helix’ scopes in co-creation between academia, government and business? This creative multidisciplinary panel discusses effective ways of uplifting and empowering people throughout their lives, paying emphasis on co-creation of social innovations and policies benefitting the disadvantaged groups.
Moderator: Dr Mikko Perkiö, SAFINET, Tampere University
Speakers:
13:30 – 15:00 The human dimensions of climate change
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF II)
Host: Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC)
Climate change is one of the world’s grand challenges facing humanity today. Projections point towards a surge in extreme weather events and increased frequency and intensity disproportionately affecting the poor. The 21st Century is likely to experience an increase in global average temperature in Southern Africa of 3.4 – 4.20 degrees centigrade under high emissions scenario (IPCC AR5). Southern African Coasts are experiencing rising sea level markedly due to increasing sea surface temperature. The latest droughts linked to the El Nino together with floods linked to Cyclone Idai (2019) and the recent 2022 floods in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and Eastern Cape (EC) coupled with landslides have had serious economic and societal consequences. All this happening in the context of a global agenda for a low carbon future which also poses a huge challenge to the economic, social, and well-being of the vulnerable poor.
Moderator: Prof. Narnia Bohler-Muller, HSRC
Speakers:
15:30 – 17:00 Launch of the ASSAf inclusivity initiative: gender equity and persons with disabilities
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF II)
Host: Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf)
The Academy of Science of South Africa’s Transformation Strategy calls for removal of barriers to equal participation in the science, technology and innovation (STI) ecosystem as well as widening access to scientific information. Gender and race have been the forefront variables due to our country’s history, however, ASSAf has incorporated disability barriers (inclusive of mental disabilities) as part of the key component in enhancing full societal participation in STI. The session will launch the ASSAf Inclusivity Initiative on Gender Equity and Persons with Disabilities which aims to enhance inclusive participation in STI and foster partnerships to advance the agenda, in line with the objectives of the DSI Decadal Plan in STI. Through this initiative ASSAf further aims to foster empowerment and amplify the voices of persons with disabilities, particularly by focusing on innovation as a tool for inclusivity. Discussions at the launch will address the barriers that prevent women and persons with disabilities from fully participating in the national system of innovation (NSI) and more importantly focus on recommendations for solutions to removing barriers that hinder wide participation by persons with disabilities, and how innovation can be a tool to enhance equity.
Moderator: Prof. Olubakula Babalola, North-West University
Speakers:
15:30 – 17:00 Contact sports and the brain: The latest clinical and players’ welfare research from rugby, football and ice-hockey
Venue: CSIR ICC (Onyx Room)
This highly topical panel brings together athletes, neurosurgeons, researchers and policy-makers to focus attention on the management of concussion across all sports and the proven neurodegenerative disease it can cause. Our focus is state of the art medical science spanning pre-clinical and computer-generated models of actual collisions to pitch-side and post-match care. The sports under the spotlight are rugby, football and ice-hockey. These are contact sports, so minor injuries are fairly common. Head injuries are the most dangerous, the treatment and serious of which differ dramatically from an obvious broken jaw to an innocuous bump.
Demonstrating how science can now map on-field video evidence to computational, cognitive and clinical neuroimaging in the lab, speakers will take you inside the scrum and the world of repeated headers and risky falls. The truth is that symptoms and recovery differ vastly from player to player, knock to knock. Athletes frequently suffer from post-concussion symptoms such as headache, dizziness, balance or memory issues, ringing ears, sensitivity to light etc. without actually being diagnosed with concussion. On the balance of probabilities, medical science ‘knows’ that head impacts are leading to long-lasting brain injuries in athletes across a range of sports, but that this is a ‘virtual impossibility’ to prove beyond a reasonable doubt. Herein lies the challenge.
Side by side, we hear the expertise of leading brain surgeons and the real-life experiences of athletes who have reached the highest echelons of their sport for club and country. Speakers examine if today’s concussion management from grass roots to the professional game is fit for purpose. For example, one recent Rugby Safety Network survey shows that 46% of all university rugby players experienced concussion in a single season. What exactly happens when the body’s muscles and the team’s combined physical force are engaged in situations like scrummaging? Doctors will explain why damage to the forehead is less likely to cause serious harm than, for example, a blow to the jaw. The science behind protective head gear and ‘smart’ mouth-guards to monitor brain impacts will also be discussed. The panel’s common purpose is to increase awareness about the consequences of concussion and the need for greater funding to study it. Their common drive is to improve the recognition and management of sports-related head injuries and to find better ways to protect, support and educate players.
Prof. Rémi Quirion (Canada)
Inaugural Scientific Director, Institute of Neuroscience, Mental Health & Addictions, Canadian institute of Health Research. View bio
Prof. Willie Stewart (United Kingdom)
Consultant Neuropathologist, University of Glasgow; Organiser of the ongoing FIFA BrainHOPE Study & Author of the 2019 FIELD Study in Football. View bio
Jamie Cudmore (Canada)
Former Professional Rugby Union Player for Canada appearing in four Rugby World Cups & Top 14 French National Champion; Founder of the Rugby Safety Network. View bio
Dr Maryse Lassonde (Canada)
Canada Research Chair in Developmental Neuropsychology at the University of Montreal & the University Hospital Center Sainte-Justine researching brain disorders; Former President of the Royal Society of Canada. View bio
Daan du Toit
Deputy Director-General: International Cooperation and Resources, Department of Science and Innovation
View bio
Aidan Gilligan
CEO, SciCom – Making Sense of Science
View bio
Prof. Rémi Quirion (Canada)
Inaugural Scientific Director, Institute of Neuroscience, Mental Health & Addictions, Canadian institute of Health Research. View bio
7 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Why not South Africa for artificial intelligence?
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF I)
Host: Department of Science and Innovation
Artificial Intelligence (AI), as a branch of science that studies and develops intelligent machines, is a significant component of the fourth industrial revolution that will lead to fundamental changes in the way people live, work, and relate to one another. AI promises to bring about fundamental socio-cultural changes in Africa, including in areas such as political activities, poverty alleviation, environmental sustainability, transportation, agriculture, healthcare, education, financial transactions, and religious and traditional belief systems to name but a few. Policymakers, researchers, industry role players are conceding that AI is continuously playing an increasingly important role in our daily lives and AI technologies is booming on the African continent, however policy responses in South Africa and the continent are still at in the early stages. The African Union has an AU-AI continental strategy for Africa, which aims to guide countries in their endeavours towards supporting inclusive and sustainable AI-enabled socio-economic development. The session will look at a two pronged approach and discussion on urgent matters around ethical considerations in AI and current policy developments in South Africa and an exploration of the role which the South African government is or should play to advance the AI ecosystem in the continent. Speakers will deliberate on the roles and effectiveness of government, private sector, academia, and civil society organisations in creating a unified and innovative AI network across South Africa and Africa. The speakers will touch on matters surrounding how Africa needs to increase and improve its competitiveness in AI.
Moderator: Imraan Patel, Department of Science and Innovation
Speakers:
13:30 – 15:00 Advancing science diplomacy for climate resilience in Africa and social justice
National Research Foundation (NRF I)
Host: Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC)
This session delves into the pivotal role of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) in Africa’s socio-economic development amidst global challenges. the focus is on fostering partnerships and advancing STI capabilities. Emphasizing climate change solutions, the session aims to enhance Africa’s contribution to science diplomacy and promote vibrant discussions among stakeholders, aligning with Agenda 2063 for building resilience to climate change through strategic partnerships.
Moderator: Dr Sithembile Mbethe, University of Pretoria
Speakers:
11:00 – 12:30 Education for the future-the role of language and digital technologies to help children read for meaning
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF I)
Host: Department of Science and Innovation
South Africa’s learning outcomes have been found to be worse by international standards, with approximately 81% of grade 4 learners in South Africa unable to read for meaning. Basic literacy continues to decline as most children leave grade one without knowing the alphabet. Provinces such as Gauteng and the Western Cape are a few exception to this. In 2016, Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) estimated that 78% of Grade 4 learners could not read for meaning in any language. In order to solve the problem of poor learning outcomes, digital technologies have been cited as some of the tools that can be used; hence they have continued to emerge in usage particularly since the Covid-19 pandemic; making their applications somewhat institutionalised in education. Hence it is predicted that given the surge, there will be continued usage of the digital learning platforms post-pandemic due to its accelerated use and adoption by learners and teachers alike. In light of the above, the session will interrogate that extent to which digital technologies can improve the learning outcomes for learners to be able to read for meaning.
Moderator: Ms Palesa Tyobeka, National Department of Basic Education
Speakers:
7 December 2023
17:30 Networking reception
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Networking Reception in all exhibition areas from 17:30.
8 December 2023
07:00 – 10:00 Registration
Venue: CSIR ICC (Central Foyer)
Registration is open from 07:00 – 10:00.
07:00 – 10:00 Morning refreshments
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Morning refreshments will be available from 07:00 – 10:00 in all exhibition areas.
8 December 2023
10:00 – 12:00 Mid-morning refreshments
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition Hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Mid-morning refreshments available from 10:00 – 12:00 in all exhibition areas.
13:30 – 15:30 Lunch
Venue: CSIR ICC (Exhibition Hall, Amber I Room and Deck)
Light networking closing lunch will be available until 15:30 in all exhibition areas.
8 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Understanding the influence of online technologies on political behaviour and decision-making
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond Auditorium)
Host: European Commission – Joint Research Centre
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our lives in an unprecedented range of ways. It is a human, economic and social crisis that has potentially changed the way we live, work, and interact with each other forever. It has taken many of our lives in an increasing online direction, both in terms of work and in the way we socialise with our friends and family. The ability to work and socialise online has some clear benefits – it enables us to stay informed, shop without risk of spreading COVID-19, keep-up with friends and family, and greatly reduces the commute to and from work! But there are drawbacks to this increasing online way of interacting. In its seminal report on “Technology and Democracy: understanding the influence of online technologies on political behaviour and decision-making”, the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) identified four “pressure points” that emerge with increasing online interactions. While this report focuses on clear recommendations for European policymakers, it also highlights the impact that online technologies could have on our democracy, society and scientific communities around the globe. The JRC will share how the findings from this report have informed European law-making.
Moderator: Bongiwe Moni, Human Sciences Research Council
Speakers:
8 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Co-creation of policy solutions for transformative innovation: results and reflection of a policy hackathon
Venue: CSIR ICC (Amber II Room)
Host: University of Johannesburg
Co-creation is central to the practice of Transformative Innovation Policy (TIP), and a policy hackathon is a valuable tool for facilitating this collaborative approach. Policy hackathons serve as dynamic platforms for co-creating innovative policies as they facilitate the active involvement of diverse stakeholders, foster intensive collaboration, and promote the rapid development and prototyping of policy solutions that can drive transformative change within innovation ecosystems. This session will present the results of a policy hackathon in collaboration with the Transformative Innovation Policy Community of Practice in South Africa (TIP SA), the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the NRF. The session will not only showcase the concrete policy solutions generated through the hackathon but also underscore the imperative for innovative approaches to policymaking that can catalyse systemic change in Africa.
Moderator: Prof. Erika Kraemer-Mbula, University of Johannesburg
Speakers:
8 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Building human capabilities in STI: The importance of active mentorship in supporting and building women research leaders in South Africa and Africa region at large
Venue: CSIR ICC (Emerald Auditorium)
Host: The Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD)
Women continuously face exclusion and inequality in areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to date. This exclusion means that many of them might have had limited access to funding, mentorship, support, and platforms that would have allowed them to connect with likeminded individuals in their respective fields and also denied them of the opportunity of sharing their research. The lack of active mentorship programmes between emerging and leading renowned women scientists has made it even more challenging for emerging women scientists to build their careers within STEM and develop leadership qualities. Mentorship is one of the strongest tools between a mentor and mentees that aids in paving the way towards a suitable career path within STEM post tertiary education and PhD. The session will deliberate on why mentorship programmes are important and the benefit having a mentor as an evolving woman in science.
Moderator: Dr Natisha Dukhi, Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC)
Speakers:
09:00 – 10:30 Learning, sharing and growing science education with communities
Venue: CSIR Club
Host: University of KwaZulu-Natal
What does this mean in our context? How do South African Higher Education Institutions engage with communities for enhancement? What are the opportunities and possibilities where communities (learners, teachers, elderly, parents, guardians, community care-givers/mentors) with universities (students, lecturers, administrators) are engaged in learning, sharing and growing. These interactive conversations will entice you to be engaged with the multifaceted strategies and programmes of Science Education, Researching Service-Learning with over 300 reports, Grade 3 Family Maths and Key Concepts in Science, Climate Change Education – innovative initiatives. The focus is on pivotal work in the South African context with community transformative engagements.
Throughout these conversations, we will also address the larger implications for the future of scientific education and communities in South Africa. We will discuss how these unique programmes go beyond simply imparting knowledge, to pedagogical and technical skills, attitudes and the provisioning of resources. They foster social cohesion, where teachers and learners have fun in teaching and learning, and envision growth in the respective communities and fields.
Moderator: Dr Bongani Ndlovu, University of KwaZulu-Natal
Speakers:
8 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 A game changer for Africa’s space industry: the African continental free trade area and space diplomacy
Venue: CSIR ICC (Ruby Auditorium)
Host: Department of Science and Innovation
According to the African Space Strategy which was adopted by AU Heads of State and Government in 2016 , development of space-related applications and services will enable the continent to not only address its socio-economic challenges but will also be an avenue for the implementation of Agenda 2063 and the Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA 2024). Spin-offs from space technologies have led to advancements in such diverse fields as medicine and materials science. These applications and technological advancements can very well position Africa as a global space player.
Moderator: Dr Mmboneni Muofhe, DSI
Speakers:
8 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Harnessing Africa’s demographic dividend: innovative plural pathways to sustainable development goal 8.6
Venue: CSIR ICC (Crystal/Garnet Room)
Host: African Development Bank (AfDB)
The High-level roundtable is organised by the AfDB to stimulate dialogue on innovative pathways to achieving SDG8.6. It will offer African leaders and experts from the AU Commission, the AfDB, the Government of South Africa and other countries to reflect on how best to strengthen technical vocational education and training (TVET) systems; new forms of innovations in and programmes for skills development; ways of unlocking barriers to structural transformation for green youth jobs and entrepreneurship; and strategic knowledge and financial resources that the AfDB should mobilise and invest to speed up pathways to SDG8.6. The roundtable will also generate ideas for the AU STISA-2034 and the AfDB human capital development strategies.
Moderator: Prof. John Ouma Mugabe, African Development Bank (AfDB)
Speakers:
8 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 The state of African science and unleashing its transformative potential in the global science systems
Venue: CSIR ICC (Onyx Room)
Host: University of Pretoria
This panel session intends to reflect and share outcomes from a side event during the Science Forum South Africa with Africa’s leading science ecosystem stakeholders hosted by Future Africa at the University of Pretoria and the International Science Council. The consultative full-day workshop intends to explore the current state, related opportunities and challenges for African science, and collaborative avenues to accelerate African science system development and enhance its influence, visibility, and voice in the global science arena. The session intends to address the following questions:
Moderator: Dr Farai Kapfudzaruwa, Future Africa, University of Pretoria
Speakers:
8 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Vaping: the lesser of two evils killing me softly or our greatest public health opportunity?
Venue: CSIR ICC (Amethyst)
Smoking kills. Approximately 8 million people die prematurely each year. That is ten-times the population of Pretoria or twice that of Johannesburg. Vaping we are not yet quite sure about. Is it, as the UK Mail Online April 2023 headline claimed: “The Crack Cocaine of Tobacco”? This panel brings together leading public health experts from Africa, Europe and North America to examine the science and public opinion for and against vaping, asking what regulators playing catch-up ought to do next.
Divided in two parts, firstly, top scientists will explain why addiction starts and ends with the brain. We get the latest insights from the Deputy-Director of the US National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH-NIDA) on addiction science, on substance-use disorders and on how to treat the addicted brain. Then we take a look inside the world’s largest public health research programme at Johns Hopkins University (JHU), to see what evidence-based toxicology is discovering right now. A clear focus will be on tackling common misconceptions, for example, that vaping is more addictive than smoking or that nicotine damages brain development in young people. The inherent health risks around vaping technologies and their batteries, heavy-metals, flavourings etc. will equally be addressed.
Secondly, we pay particular attention to policy responses world-wide, inviting on-stage as discussants a chief scientist accustomed to advising elected officials on how to regulate risk and a senior health expert from within South Africa’s science-system. During an open debate moderated by a science journalist, we ask if African states really do get to decide for themselves and if so, does it really matter? The global picture from acceptance to partial and total bans is a mess. As thousands of products enter the market and specialised shops cannot be built fast enough, society at large is unclear what to think or do about vapes. Users are increasingly asking for more reliable information about their products too. Concerned citizens are upset that regulators are playing catch-up with accurate labelling, batteries that are safety tested and vapour that has been risk assessed. While experts for and against mount onslaughts at the WHO, evidence-based science appears to be taking a back seat. Will the end-game be regulation as a tobacco, consumer or medicinal product? The panel’s common purpose is to encourage African regulators to follow the science. In so doing, they can help reduce the affordability, appeal, accessibility and promotion of vapes to children, while at the same time ensuring that adult smokers are not discouraged from using vaping to quit smoking.
Mandi Smallhorne (South Africa)
President, South African Science Journalists’ Association (SASJA) & Steering Committee, World Conference of Science Journalists 2025, Pretoria. View bio
Understanding addictions & their brain reward systems (pre-recorded).
Dr Wilson Compton (USA)
Deputy Director of the USA National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health (NIH-NIDA). View bio
Understanding toxicology: vaping versus smoking – the lesser of two evils?
Prof. Thomas Hartung (Germany)
Chair of Evidence-based Toxicology in the Department of Environmental Health and Engineering at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. View bio
Video Presentation (7 minutes): “Covid19 alcohol & tobacco bans: South Africa in the global news”.
Understanding discrimination & promoting access to healthcare (5 mins).
Prof. Solly Rataemane M.D. (South Africa): Chairperson of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Mental Health; Former Professor and Head of the Psychiatric Department at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) and Dr George Mukari Academic Hospital. View bio
Understanding how science advisers help regulate risk (5 mins).
Prof. Rémi Quirion (Canada): Inaugural Scientific Director, Institute of Neuroscience, Mental Health & Addictions, Canadian Institute of Health Research. View bio
Mandi Smallhorne (South Africa)
President, South African Science Journalists’ Association (SASJA) & Steering Committee, World Conference of Science Journalists 2025, Pretoria. View bio
Aidan Gilligan
CEO, SciCom – Making Sense of Science
View bio
8 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Transforming social inequalities through inclusive climate action
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF II)
Host: African Climate and Development Initiative
This panel discussion will present innovative research about the intersection of climate action and social inequalities in Sub-Saharan Africa. South Africa, Ghana and Kenya are three of 54 countries that ratified the Paris Agreement in Africa. Every five years, the nations report their progress on achieving the climate goals for an unspecified time into the future. The so called nationally determined contributions (NDCs) are the main instruments to report the progress on innovation, socio-economic and technological transformations to ensure that livelihoods remain without harm in the most unequal and most vulnerable region in the world. The panel of a mix of government officials and researchers will discuss the role of science and innovation in national determination for inclusive climate action.
Moderator: Dr Britta Rennkamp, University of Cape Town
Speakers:
8 December 2023
09:00 – 10:30 Introducing u’GOOD: A research programme centering young people and relational wellbeing in the Global South
Venue: National Research Foundation (NRF I)
Host: National Research Foundation (NRF)
The programme will be launched by Fondation Botnar, NRF and HSRC. Following this, a panel discussion will take place featuring the u’GOOD Academic leader, Prof. Sharlene Swartz, Roshni Nuggehalli, and Prof. Mariano Rojas. A response to the panel discussion by Thandiwe Matthews from the perspective of a young person will be followed by an interactive discussion with session participants and closing remarks from Dr Gugu Moche. The panel provides a platform to engage on the value of relational wellbeing as framework, on the Global South as context, and young people as the focus of the programme.
Moderator: Dr Sepo Hachigonta, National Research Foundation (NRF)
Speakers:
8 December 2023
Watch a recording of the Closing Session.
11:00 – 11:05 Introduction
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Vinny Pillay
Chief Director: International Resources, Department of Science and Innovation
View bio
11:05 – 12:30 Panel discussion
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Moderator
Daan du Toit
Deputy Director-General: International Cooperation and Resources, Department of Science and Innovation
View bio
Speakers
Dr Aline Cossy-Gantner
Chief Development Officer, Fondation Botnar
View bio
Sandra Kramer
EU Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa
View bio
Antony Phillipson
British High Commissioner to South Africa
View bio
Prof. Rémi Quirion (Canada)
Chief Scientist of Quebec (Canada); President of the International Network for Government Science Advice (INGSA). View bio
Dr Sally Stansfield
Managing Director in the Social Impact at Deloitte Consulting LLP and Chief Advisor at the Gates Foundation. View bio
Prof. John Ouma Mugabe
Professor of Science and Innovation Policy, University of Pretoria – Graduate School of Technology Management. View bio
Anneline Morgan
Senior Programme Officer – Science, Technology and Innovation, Directorate of Industrial Development and Trade (IDT). View bio
Prof. Fulufhelo Nelwamondo
CEO, National Research Foundation.
View bio
12:30 – 12:45 Presentation of Grassroots Innovation Awards
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Presentation of Grassroots Innovation Awards by the Technology Innovation Agency
12:45 – 12:50 Presentation of best exhibitions at SFSA awards
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Buti Manamela
Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
View bio
12:50 – 13:00 Closing address
Venue: CSIR ICC (Diamond, Ruby & Emerald Auditoriums & Exhibition Hall)
Buti Manamela
Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
View bio
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