Open Science Day

The Africa Open Science Platform (AOSP) in partnership with UNESECO hosted the Open Science Day on 7 December 2022, along the World Science Forum. Speaking during the event, Dr Philemon Mjwara, the Director-General of the South African Department of Science and Innovation, highlighted the need for using Open Science to engage in public understanding, awareness, and capacity in dealing with a data and information-intensive world. These remarks were echoed by the NRF CEO, Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, who further highlighted the need for all stakeholders and individuals to take it upon themselves to be the ambassadors and advocates for Open Science.

Among others, the forum is aimed at taking stock of the progress made in supporting the implementation of UNESCO Recommendation and to share lessons and practical approaches on open science from across the globe. The forum shared newly developed tools/guidelines in different areas of science and to sensitize emerging researchers on Open Science practices in addition to providing short training on these tools. Speaking during the event, Dr Lidia Brito, the UNESCO Southern Africa, Director highlighted the need for effective collaboration as a key drive for practical implementation of open science at institutional, national and regional level.

The forum provided a platform for researchers, publishers, funders, policymakers, civil society and other open science actors from across the world to exchange ideas, good practices and lessons learned.

The AOSP aims to position African scientists to be at the cutting edge of contemporary, data-intensive science as a fundamental resource for a modern society.