NRF Hosts High-Level Science Diplomacy Dialogue and Systems Analysis at G20 Summit

On 21 November 2025, during the global engagements of the G20 Summit hosted by South Africa, the National Research Foundation (NRF), in partnership with the University of Pretoria (UP) and the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), convened a high-level dialogue themed Elevating Africa’s Voice in Global Systems Analysis.

Central to the discussions was the role of the NRF’s partnership with IIASA and the coordination provided through the Sub-Saharan African Regional Member Organisation of IIASA (SSARMO). This partnership provides African researchers with access to global expertise, advanced analytical tools, and international research networks. Such access enables the generation of actionable, systems-based insights that address complex and interconnected challenges facing the continent, including climate change, food security, public health, and economic resilience.

The dialogue affirmed the strategic value of strengthening research-to-policy linkages, deepening regional collaboration, and leveraging science diplomacy to ensure that African institutions can play an influential role in global conversations on sustainability. Participants emphasised that African perspectives must not only be included but also inform and shape international decision-making.

The event brought together diplomats, senior leaders, researchers, and policy stakeholders to reflect on the growing importance of science diplomacy and systems analysis in enabling African countries to shape global policy and sustainable development agendas. In opening the dialogue, Dr Thandi Mgwebi, Group Executive for Business Advancement at the NRF, said “The higher education sector plays a pivotal role in connecting research insights to policy processes and strengthens Africa’s global engagement.”

During the event, the Dr Sepo Hachigonta, Executive Director at the NRF, presented the Sub-Saharan Systems Analysis Centre (SASAC) Roadmap and outlined how SASAC is expanding regional capacity in systems thinking and evidence-informed policymaking.

Through convening this dialogue, the NRF helped to create a platform for African institutions to share perspectives, strengthen collaboration, and deepen engagement with global partners. The discussions highlighted the value of coordinated efforts across universities, research councils, and regional networks to expand capacity in systems analysis and science diplomacy. Participants underscored the importance of continued investment in capacity building, inclusive engagement, and strategic partnerships to advance Africa’s collective influence within the G20 and other global scientific and policy forums.

For information on SASAC or SSARMO, please contact Puleng Tshitlho (pr.tshitlho@nrf.ac.za).