We are pleased to invite proposals from individuals and institutions to convene panel sessions as part of the SFSA 2025 programme. These sessions should align with the Forum’s theme and sub-themes, and provide an opportunity to engage diverse perspectives in critical conversations.
DEADLINE
The submission deadline is 21 July 2025.
THEME
Igniting conversations: Placing Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Centre of Government, Education, Society, and Industry
SUB-THEMES
Applications are invited for proposals under the following sub-themes:
Financing for Science, Technology and Innovation (STI)
This sub-theme will explore ways to enhance financing for science, technology and innovation (STI). Discussions will cover a range of mechanisms, from government instruments available for funding STI and research, to private sector investment and support. The role of public-private partnerships, venture capital, crowdfunding, and angel investment in supporting STI will also be examined. In addition, the discussions may link to the outcomes of the Financing for Development Conference, providing an opportunity to reflect on global commitments to STI and development.
Science and Society Nexus (Agriculture, Health, Climate Change, Just Energy Transition)
This sub-theme will explore how science, technology and innovation (STI) is being, and can be, used to address global challenges such as agriculture, health, climate change, and the just transition. It will highlight the growing role of STI in contributing to a sustainable and just society. The discussions may also consider how these efforts can support the development of resilient cities.
Building Research Capabilities for Africa (STISA 2024)
The Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2034 (STISA 2034) serves as a strategic roadmap for leveraging science, technology and innovation (STI) to drive socio-economic development across the continent. Developed through a collaborative effort by the African Union and its partners, STISA 2034 aims to transform Africa into a knowledge-driven economy. Under this sub-theme, proposals are invited to explore ways to strengthen research capabilities in Africa. Discussions may also address the role of education and the types of skills needed to achieve the strategy’s objectives.
The Role of Science Diplomacy
In 2025, science diplomacy has been revisited—both in terms of its concepts and implementation, as well as the role it occupies within global geopolitics. The rapid evolution of established mechanisms has highlighted the need to rethink how science diplomacy can be used by a range of stakeholders to strengthen partnerships. It is no longer solely a tool for governments; the private sector is also increasingly engaging in this space. This sub-theme will explore emerging thinking around science diplomacy and discuss ways to integrate it more effectively into broader policy frameworks and international cooperation efforts.
Emerging Industry – The role of Disruptive Technologies
Emerging industries—such as biotechnology, fintech, the circular economy, digital technologies and artificial intelligence—present significant opportunities to reshape the global economy. This track will facilitate discussions on the implications of these industries for society and employment, as well as explore potential governance models that may need to be considered.
Science Journalism and Science Communication
Science journalism plays a critical role in communicating and reporting on key scientific developments at both national and global levels. This sub-theme will also explore ways to strengthen and develop science journalism, as well as how it can help address challenges related to information sharing and the growth of the field. In parallel, the discussions will examine the complementary role of science communication in supporting a more informed and engaged society.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have become a key driver of innovation. This sub-theme invites proposals from stakeholders to showcase case studies of PPPs, and to engage in discussions on grassroots innovation and its role in social development. In addition, proposals are encouraged to explore ways to strengthen the broader ecosystem to better support entrepreneurship, both at national and international levels.
GUDELINES
- The sub-themes descriptions are provided as guidelines. Innovative topics and content are encouraged under the sub-themes.
- Proposals may also integrate cross-cutting themes such as the digital economy, social sciences, research ethics, capacity building, research infrastructures, and more, as well as adopt a transdisciplinary approach.
- Each parallel session will last 90 minutes.
- Different session formats are welcome. Applicants are encouraged to develop innovative and creative approaches.
- Interactive session formats designed to engage the diverse audience at the forum are encouraged.
- The primary goal of all sessions is to spark interactive conversations about science, with a multi-stakeholder audience.
- All submitted proposals will be reviewed and assessed by the SFSA 2025 Programme Committee.
- The Committee reserves the right to request modifications to proposals before final acceptance into the programme.
- Sessions should ideally include a moderator and 3-5 panellists.
- It is recommended that each panel session adopts a conversational format between the moderator and panellists, while also engaging with the audience.
- Session proposers are responsible for organising their sessions, including the travel and logistics for speakers (panellists) and moderators.
- Diversity within panels is recommended, including geographical diversity and representativity (youth and gender balance). Applicants should avoid having more than one panellist from the same organisation.
- A maximum of 6-7 parallel sessions will run simultaneously. Session proposers are encouraged to engage in session-specific marketing.
- Successful applicants are encouraged to use SFSA 2025 social media channels to enhance audience interaction prior to and during their session.
- Exciting topics, top-quality speakers, and ample time for discussions are encouraged.
- A full range of conference facilities will be available (laptops, sound, etc.).
- Sessions will be held in-person at the venue, and all speakers are expected to participate in person.
- Any interpreting or live streaming of the session will be at the session organiser’s own cost.
- Participants, organisers, speakers, moderators, and panellists are responsible for their own costs related to attendance, including travel, accommodation, and other organisational expenses.