Department of Science and Innovation - Republic of South Africa

11/09/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/09/2022 09:17

First African World Science Forum to focus on sience for social justice

09 November 2022 Hits: 1

First African World Science Forum to focus on sience for social justice

The South African Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) will host the first African World Science Forum (WSF) from 5 to 9 December 2022.

The biannual conference brings together leading scientists, researchers, private sector players, civil society and media from around the world to discuss the role of science in addressing the global challenges facing humanity. Over 1 000 people are expected to attend the event.

Since its inception in 2013, the WSF has been held in Hungary, Brazil and Jordan. The first African gathering will be held under the theme "Science for Social Justice". There will be an exhibition with 100 stands showcasing South Africa's scientific excellence.

The DSI will launch the global science gathering tomorrow at the Iziko Museum in Cape Town. The launch event will feature a panel discussion including the Director-General of Science and Innovation, Dr Phil Mjwara, and Prof. Moenieba Isaacs, academic coordinator at the University of the Western Cape's Institute for Poverty, Land and Agrarian Studies. Prof Isaacs has worked extensively with communities in South Africa to highlight the need to deal with social differentiation in fishing communities.

Starting on 28 November, 25 pre-forum activities will be held in the build-up to the global event. A fun run with a citizen-science twist is planned for 3 December, when runners will test the air quality. The results will be announced at the closing ceremony on 9 December.

The WSF programme will include a youth element, as well as a film festival celebrating women.

The WSF will replace the DSI's annual Science Forum South Africa this year.

The media are invited as follows:

Date: 10 November 2022

Time: 08:45-12:00

Venue: Iziko Museum, Cape Town

Issued by the Department of Science and Innovation.

To attend the launch, RSVP Veronica Mohapeloa at 083 400 5750 or Thabang Setlhare at 072 659 9690.