The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, will lead South Africa’s delegation from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) at the 43rd Session of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) General Conference, currently under way in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
The conference, which began on 30 October, will conclude on 13 November 2025.
The DSTI delegation will participate in sessions that align with the department’s areas of expertise and mandate, starting on Thursday, 6 November.
The UNESCO General Conference convenes every two years and gathers ministers, heads of delegation, senior policymakers, and experts from 195 member states.
It also includes representatives from the United Nations (UN) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
Nzimande emphasised the significance of participating in the conference and believes that this global forum provides South Africa with a strategic opportunity to influence global standards concerning the ethics of artificial intelligence (AI) and open science.
“It contributes to multilateral frameworks that advance science, innovation, and environmental sustainability, promotes South Africa’s initiatives in indigenous knowledge systems, youth engagement in science, and inclusive sport and education. It also strengthens our country’s visibility and leadership within the Group of 20 (G20) science and innovation platforms."
South Africa will begin sessions focusing on two key UNESCO Commissions, the Social and Human Sciences (SHS) Commission and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (SC-IOC) for Natural Sciences.
The SHS Commission will focus on the ethical, social, and policy aspects of science, technology, and education. This includes topics such as the ethics of artificial intelligence, science policy, inclusive sports, and the inclusion of individuals with disabilities.
The commission will be chaired by South Africa’s permanent representative to UNESCO, Ambassador, Dr Phil Mjwara.
According to the department, South Africa’s participation in this commission is undertaken in partnership with the Department of Social Development, the lead department for the SHS Sector.
SC-IOC will focus on science, oceanography, climate, and environmental sustainability.
The DSTI will lead South Africa’s participation in this commission, supported by the Department of Water and Sanitation and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment.
As part of the conference program, Dr Blade Nzimande has been invited by UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences, Dr Lidia Brito, to be a panellist in a high-level side event titled: “Trust, Transformation, Tomorrow: The Science We Need for 2025.” The event will take place on Sunday, 10 November.
Through its active participation in the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference, the DSTI reaffirms its commitment to fostering global collaboration and addressing societal challenges through science, technology, and innovation. – SAnews.gov.za
