South Africa will showcase science, innovation and evidence-based policymaking at UNESCO’s global sustainable development conference, strengthening international collaboration and advancing inclusive development priorities worldwide.
South Africa will be represented by Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Nomalungelo Gina at UNESCO’s 2026 Global Conference of the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development, taking place in Paris from 15 to 17 July.
The conference supports the implementation of the United Nations International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024–2033), bringing together ministers, scientists and global leaders to explore how science can accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
Held under the theme “Science in Action: Charting a Sustainable and Equitable Future for All,” the event focuses on strengthening international cooperation, evidence-informed policymaking, open science, capacity development and stronger collaboration between researchers, governments and society.
Deputy Minister Gina said South Africa’s participation demonstrates the country’s commitment to using science, technology and innovation to drive inclusive economic growth, social development and improved quality of life.
“South Africa’s participation also seeks to strengthen the country’s engagement with UNESCO and other member states, while reinforcing our role in science diplomacy and international scientific cooperation,” she said.
South Africa will also highlight its support for the UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science, recognising that accessible and collaborative scientific systems are essential for expanding knowledge, strengthening public trust in science and accelerating innovation for sustainable development.
These principles align with South Africa’s 2019 White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation, which positions science and innovation as strategic drivers of inclusive development.
During the conference, Dr Gina will participate in two high-level discussions. The first will explore how governments can translate scientific evidence into policy priorities and practical implementation, while the second will focus on how environmental exposure research can inform public health interventions and evidence-based policymaking.
South Africa will use the international platform to promote evidence-informed decision-making, scientific collaboration and innovation as practical tools for addressing global challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, food and water security, public health and sustainable industrial development.
“The country’s central message is that science must remain accessible, collaborative and purposefully directed towards improving the lives of people,” said Dr Gina.
The conference follows President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent visit to France, providing a further opportunity to strengthen South Africa’s engagement with UNESCO and reinforce the country’s role in global science and sustainable development initiatives.
