Science Forum South Africa 2023

The Science Forum South Africa will be held from 6 to 8 December 2023 at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria, South Africa. The Forum serves as a large, open, public platform for debating the science and society interface.

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 4 to 6 December 2023.

The Forum is 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 characteristics of SFSA 2023 will include

• A provocative and stimulating forum programme comprising several parallel sessions, addressing a diverse range of science and science policy orientated themes;
• A rich diversity in the background of participants, comprising scientists, students, public and private sector representatives as well as civil society constituents;
• A forum programme not only compiled “top-down” by the organisers but also enabling public input through a competitive call for proposals for the organisation of sessions; and
• A strong international dimension to the event, reflected by the participation of speakers and attendees from a diverse range of countries, especially from Africa.

Photo by Mikael Kristenson on Unsplash