The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) convened the first G20 Research and Innovation Working Group (RIWG) meeting at the Bloemfontein Campus of the University of the Free State (UFS) from 24 to 25 February 2025. The meeting took place in hybrid format, under the theme: Equity in Science and Innovation-based Approach to Sustainable Development – in support of South Africa’s overarching G20 Presidency theme of Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.
The RIWG meeting was chaired by Mr Daan du Toit, Deputy Director-General: International Cooperation and Resources at the DSTI. The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande delivered remarks during the official opening ceremony. Ms Elzabe Rockman, Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Agriculture and Rural Development, also delivered a message of support on behalf of the Premier of the Province, Ms MaQueen Joyce Letsoha-Mathae.
In his opening remarks, the Minister welcomed the opportunity to continue discussions with delegations from G20 members, invited guest countries, international organisations and knowledge partners on the role of the RIWG in advancing an solidarity agenda in pursuance of scientific enterprise and innovation. Minister Nzimande also called on delegates to honour the principles of cooperation, co-creation and partnership, in their engagements in the RIWG.
The meeting served as a platform for South Africa to present and receive feedback from delegations on the priorities of the RIWG during the country’s Presidency of the G20. These priorities are as follows:
- Open Innovation for Development
- Biodiversity for Sustainable Development
- Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) in Science, Technology, and Innovation.
There was general support for South Africa’s priorities and deliverables.
The second meeting of the RIWG will take place from 25 to 27 May 2025 at the Mbombela Campus of the University of Mpumalanga. The outcomes of the technical Working Group meetings will inform the discussions at the G20 Research Ministers’ meeting and the Working Group Declaration in September 2025.
The first meeting of the RIWG reaffirmed South Africa’s unwavering commitment to advancing research and innovation to address global challenges; to promoting science, technology, innovation, and international cooperation for sustainable development; to sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practices; and to ensuring more equitable access to resources and opportunities for all individuals in society.
