The Seminar convened academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss how science, technology, and innovation can advance sustainable development. Central to the dialogue was the role of global collaboration and the need to position Africa as a driver of scientific innovation.
Mr du Toit emphasised that the G20 STI agenda is guided by the principles of solidarity, equality, and sustainability.
“South Africa’s presidency is a chance to amplify African voices in global science and technology and ensure meaningful outcomes,” he said. “It is an opportunity to strengthen partnerships between government, business, academia, and civil society to drive global progress.”
He underscored the need for science and innovation to serve not only economic goals, but also to address complex global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and public health.
Among its flagship initiatives is a digital catalogue of global biodiversity, providing open access to critical environmental data for scientists, policymakers, and the public.
The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) is also contributing by integrating scientific research into housing policy, aiming to strengthen urban development through evidence-based decision-making.
Connecting Through a Global Innovation Platform
A key initiative presented was the development of a Global Innovation Platform – a digital framework designed to link innovation systems across G20 countries. The platform aims to facilitate collaboration among researchers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses in fields such as water resilience, forestry technology, and biodiversity conservation.
“The aim is to connect entrepreneurs, researchers, and small businesses with global opportunities. By using digital platforms and science partnerships, we can facilitate knowledge-sharing and drive innovations that benefit society,” Mr du Toit explained.
Among its flagship initiatives is a digital catalogue of global biodiversity, providing open access to critical environmental data for scientists, policymakers, and the public.
The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) is also contributing by integrating scientific research into housing policy, aiming to strengthen urban development through evidence-based decision-making.
The G20 Science Seminar convened students, academics, policymakers, and industry leaders.
Africa’s Leadership in Scientific Collaboration
As chair of the G20 STI Working Group, South Africa has a central role in steering discussions on open innovation, inclusive growth, and sustainable development. Mr du Toit called on universities to lead – not only contribute – to shaping the international research agenda.
“Africa’s scientific contribution is growing. We must ensure that our universities and research institutions are central to the global innovation conversation,” he said.
The seminar further highlighted the importance of regional science and technology centres as hubs for training, research, and policymaking across the continent. These centres, he noted, are key to addressing regional challenges such as climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and access to clean water.
“One of the most pressing challenges we face is water resilience. We need a multi-stakeholder approach to develop sustainable solutions, and the G20 provides a unique platform for this collaboration,” said Mr du Toit.
The Seminar provided a platform for academics and industry experts to discuss the future of science, and potential collaborations.
To support this, a hackathon-style event is being planned to bring together scientists, engineers, and innovators to co-develop strategies for water resource management and disaster resilience.
Key Priorities and Next Steps
Looking ahead, the seminar outlined the following action points to advance South Africa’s G20 STI leadership:
- Finalising the G20 STI declaration by September to cement a collective approach to science diplomacy.
- Encouraging universities to contribute research and policy expertise to shape the innovation agenda.
- Identifying three to four new initiatives that academic institutions can lead under the G20 framework.
- Expanding South Africa’s global science diplomacy footprint to ensure African priorities are reflected in policy discussions.
Mr du Toit concluded by affirming the importance of active leadership: “This is a defining moment for South Africa and Africa. We must not just participate – we must lead and shape the global conversation on science and innovation.”
The Science Seminar provided a timely platform to align South Africa’s scientific ambitions with global priorities, reinforcing innovation’s role in advancing sustainable development at home and abroad.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures ChrisplPhoto.