The Minister of Science and Technology, Derek Hanekom, is on an official visit to Japan to participate in the 10th Annual Meeting of the Science and Technology in Society (STS) Forum to be held in Kyoto from 6 to 10 October 2013.
The Minister will deliver a keynote address during the opening plenary of the STS Forum, under the overall theme of "Science and Technology for the Future of Human Kind". The Minister will also participate in the Science and Technology Ministers' Round Table Meeting, which will be held on the first day of the STS Forum on 6 October 2013.
The purpose of this meeting is to facilitate a frank exchange of information and views on issues of common interest and/or concern in developing and implementing science, technology and innovation. It is also aimed at creating a global human network based on trust, and providing a framework for open discussions regarding the development of science and technology for the benefit of humankind, while controlling ethical, safety and environmental issues resulting from their application.
The STS Forum has grown to become a true movement of world leaders who are committed to mobilising their collective wisdom to deal with crucial matters relating to science and technology and the future of humankind. The STS Forum's influence and power transcends party political lines, since it is able to bring together politicians, CEOs of multinational companies, presidents of international institutions, and powerful Japanese multinational companies, research institutes and universities.
The Minister is also scheduled to have a number of bilateral meetings on the margins of the STS Forum, including with Mr Hakubun Shimomura, Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology; Mr Ichita Yamamoto,the Minister in the Council for Science and Technology Policy; Mr Akihiko Tanaka,the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency; andMr Hiroaki Nakanishi,the CEO of Hitachi.
South Africa and Japan have enjoyed cordial science and technology bilateral relations since the signing of the Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement in 2003. The areas of cooperation include the life sciences, the environment and climate change, astronomy and space science, energy research and technology, and the promotion of science and technology among the youth.
For more information please contact:
Nthabi Maoela
Cell: 082 944 0015
