NRF Engages in Global Dialogue on AI, Equity, RRA, and Collaboration at GRC 2025

The NRF participated in the 13th Annual Meeting of the Global Research Council (GRC), held from 18–22 May 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The meeting brought together science funders from across the world to exchange knowledge, reflect on emerging challenges, and build shared frameworks for inclusive and impactful research funding.

This year’s discussions were anchored in how public research funders can uphold principles of equity, diversity, and collaboration in an era shaped by rapid technological change and complex geopolitical dynamics. The NRF contributed to side events that highlighted how equity-centred approaches can enhance research quality, trust, and resilience globally.

Exploring Ethics and Inclusion in AI-Driven Research Management

As AI tools become more widely used, the NRF joined global peers in examining their implications for equality, diversity and inclusion. Dr Dorothy Ngila, Director of Knowledge and Institutional Networks, emphasised the importance of embedding EDI principles to guide responsible AI use. “AI can be a powerful tool for removing unconscious bias in research processes,” said Dr Ngila. “However, without ethical oversight and attention to intersectionality, it risks entrenching existing inequalities and creating new digital divides.”

The session focused on how research funders can collectively govern AI to advance inclusive and ethical research ecosystems.

Contributing to Responsible Research Assessment

Complementing the AI discussions, the NRF participated in the RRA side-event Unlocking Insights: The Future of RRA, which unveiled a global report, a case study booklet, and the new Atlas of National Research Assessment Systems.

Mrs Nosisa Dube, NRF Manager for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, introduced the case studies aimed at supporting learning and adoption of responsible assessment practices across research funder organisations. “These case studies help funders explore context-sensitive pathways to evaluating excellence beyond traditional metrics,” she said.

Dr Thandi Mgwebi, Group Executive for Business Advancement, joined a panel reflecting on how aligned approaches across funders can strengthen accountability and inclusivity. “Responsible assessment is not just a technical issue,” she said. “It’s about reinforcing values that make science more equitable and responsive to society, and which must inform the future of research assessment.”

Engaging on Multilateral Research in a Changing World

As part of the Multilateral Engagement Working Group, Dr Prudence Makhura, NRF Senior Manager for International Grants and Partnerships contributed to a panel exploring how funders can sustain cross-border collaboration amid shifting (geo-)political environments.

“In a time of growing uncertainty, collaboration among funders is more vital than ever,” Dr Makhura remarked. “Ensuring mobility, access to data, and academic freedom are foundational to resilient research partnerships.”

A Common Thread: Equity and collaboration as cornerstones of research funding

Across all sessions, the NRF’s participation underscored a consistent message: equitable governance, inclusive assessment, and international cooperation are essential to advancing research systems that are not only excellent, but just and sustainable. As a committed partner within the GRC community, the NRF continues to contribute its perspectives to global dialogues shaping the future of science.

The NRF participates in GRC Working Groups focused on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), Responsible Research Assessment (RRA), and Multilateral Engagement, offering insights from the South African perspective. Through its contributions to GRC Working Groups and side events, the NRF reaffirmed its commitment to advancing ethical, inclusive, and collaborative research funding practices within the global community. For more information contact Dr. Sepo Hachigonta, Strategic Partnerships, Networking & Resources SP.Hachigonta@nrf.ac.za