NRF's Dr Thandi Mgwebi reflects on Science Forum South Africa

Dr Thandi Mgwebi, Group Executive: Business Advancement of the National Research Foundation (NRF), has applauded Science Forum South Africa for what she termed “raising the bar.” Dr Mgwebi joined a four-member panel at the closing ceremony of this year’s biggest showcase of the country’s cutting-edge research, technology and innovation, held at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria from 04 to 06 December 2024.

The panel was tasked to deliver reflections on the annual science event intended to, among other things, create a platform for a vibrant debate on the role of science, technology and innovation in society.

“I think this year’s Science Forum has almost reinforced its position as a vibrant platform for dialogue and an action-oriented platform where science, policy and society meet. It has grown bigger,” said Dr Mgwebi. “Also, this year we’ve offered a stage to showcase Africa’s leadership in driving inclusive and impactful science. We acknowledge that Africa has strategic partnerships, and even this leadership is enabled and supported by our global partners in many multilateral initiatives and bilateral engagements.”

Held for the first time in 2015, the Science Forum brings together a diverse group of people to discuss the role of science in society. In addition to researchers from South Africa and Africa, it also hosts senior government leaders, industry leaders and entrepreneurs, civil society, and students. The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation hosts the event in conjunction with the Science Diplomacy Capital for Africa initiative.

In reflecting on the event serving as a platform to foster partnerships, Dr Mgwebi said, “It’s been a living example of the power of partnerships; whether it’s partnerships between nations, partnerships between disciplines, or between sectors, we’ve seen this at this science forum. We’ve seen researchers, we’ve seen policymakers, entrepreneurs, we’ve seen civil society here – and the spirit of collaboration just reflects Africa’s global role as a science player.”

More reflection from Dr Mgwebi | WATCH