About SFSA 2024

The Science Forum South Africa 2024 will take place from 4 – 6 December at the CSIR International Convention Centre, Pretoria, South Africa.

The theme for the Forum is Igniting Conversations About Science – People, Partnerships, Priorities for the Decadal Plan.

The objective of the Forum is to ignite a 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 plenary lectures and discussions by and involving leading South African and international scientists, experts and thought leaders.

An exhibition will also be hosted at the SFSA, with key institutions and partners of the National System of Innovation.

A series of side events in the lead up to the SFSA will be convened from 2 to 4 December 2024.

The Forum is proudly co-hosted by the South African Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) 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.

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 3 500 participants for discussion and debate, and includes an exhibition and public outreach activities.

Organising committee

ASSAf – Academy of Science of South Africa
CSIR ICC – CSIR International Convention Centre
DHET – Department of Higher Education and Training
DIRCO – Department of International Relations and Cooperation
DSI – 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

The SFSA 2024 organising committee will be announced as soon.