SA to Host G20 Science and Innovation Meetings in Mpumalanga
South Africa, in its role as the G20 President for this year, will host the second G20 Research and Innovation Working Group and G20 Initiative on Bioeconomy meetings from 25 to 28 May 2025 at the University of Mpumalanga in Mbombela, starting at 09:00.
Organized by the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation, these meetings will review progress on the 10 deliverables agreed upon during the first RIWG meeting held in February, as well as a follow-up session in April. Delegates are also expected to engage in discussions on a draft G20 Ministerial Declaration focusing on research and innovation.
With just five years remaining to achieve the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, the meetings aim to accelerate global cooperation, particularly in safeguarding biodiversity and leveraging science and technology to address the world’s most pressing challenges.
On Africa Day, 25 May, the DSTI will also host the G20 Africa STI Leaders Dialogue, which will focus on the role of artificial intelligence in advancing the African Union’s STISA-2034 strategy. AI is expected to be a crucial tool in driving inclusive growth and innovation across the African continent.
