Geared Up for the global race in science and iinovation
The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) makes history as it merges the Innovation Bridge Event and Science Forum South Africa 2019 to increase opportunities for Africa and global partnerships in investment and research in all areas of science, technology and innovation. Minister of Science and Innovation DR BLADE NZIMANDE says this is crucial for Africa’s growth.
SOUTH AFRICA, and the greater continent, must tap into science, technology and innovation (STI) if it is to realise the goal of economic inclusion, real and meaningful transformation and achieving sustainable livelihoods.
Key to this goal is the strengthening of the interface between the science community, particularly scientists, innovators and researchers, and members of the general public to enhance the continent’s discourse on the role of science in the vast populations.
This requires greater levels of collaboration between the science enterprise, governments, the private and public institutions, civil society and community stakeholders.
To that end, this year the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) has taken the concrete step to merge two premier science platforms to create positive change and ensure maximum reach and impact. The Innovation Bridge (IB) Technology Matchmaking and Showcasing Event and Science Forum South Africa (SFSA), previously separate events, have joined forces to maximise engagement, impact and returns.
The inaugural 2019 joint event under the theme: “Igniting Conversations About Science for Innovation with Impact” focuses on how people encounter science in their daily lives and build bridges to promote Africa’s growth and development through innovation and collaboration.
For us to achieve our goals and accelerate results towards Agenda 2063, which seeks to transform Africa into the global powerhouse of the future, we need to leverage on our collective body of work on science, technology, research and innovation.
Coupled with an interactive engagement environment, we believe the joint event is crucial for South Africa to continue leading the charge for growth in the greater continent and beyond.
The IB Technology Matching and Showcasing Event opens opportunities to accelerate the utilisation and commercialisation of innovations, knowledge and technologies developed by publicly funded South African research and technology development institutions. This focus on publicly funded research and technology differentiates the IB from other innovation and technology conferences and exhibitions.
The SFSA is a platform for vibrant debate on the role of science, technology and innovation in society, the promotion of international STI partnerships and networking across the scientific enterprise and key stakeholders.
In conclusion, I wish to welcome all delegates, exhibitors and participants to the (IB) Technology Matchmaking and Showcasing Event and Science Forum South Africa (SFSA) 2019; an accessible and open melting pot of cross-discipline capability in the scientific enterprise.
I am confident that the joint event will stimulate stakeholders to probe deeper into solutions towards a transformative science and innovation system and champion maximum impact.