The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is taking part in an exhibition in Maputo, Mozambique from 15 to 20 August, to showcase South Africa’s best experiences and activities in science, technology and innovation (STI).
Creating public awareness of STI is one of the identified areas of cooperation between
South Africa and Mozambique.
Invited by the Mozambican Ministry of Science and Technology, the department’s
participation in the exhibition is expected to foster a strong foundation for cooperation
between the two countries’ science and technology institutions.
The following are some of the exhibition's objectives:
- To bring the general public closer to advances made in Science and Technology.
- To create a space for greater interaction between researchers, the business
sector and the public. - To promote an interest in scientific research among students, particularly from
secondary schools and universities. - To promote an awareness of indigenous knowledge and culture in STI.
Featuring prominently in the DST exhibition are the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), the
South African National Space Agency, the activities of the South African Agency for
Science and Technology Advancement and the African Space Institute.
On the sidelines are a series of public lectures and round-table discussions on various
topics related to STI, including astronomy, satellite navigation, space tourism and the
economic impact of space operations.
Current status of South Africa-Mozambique cooperation
The DST enjoys good relations with the Ministry of Science and Technology of Mozambique, characterised by continuous exchanges on matters of mutual interest since signing a bilateral scientific and technological cooperation agreement in July 2006.
Biosciences, space science, indigenous knowledge systems, environment and climate
change and energy are some of the issues of collaboration between the two.
The parties have further resolved to strengthen cooperation on climate adaptation,
integrated water resources management, as well as key agenda items ahead of the
COP17 conference to be hosted in Durban in November.
Engagements are also continuing on strengthening Mozambique’s Research and Education Network (MoRENet) through collaboration with the South African Research
and Education Network (SANREN).
South Africa will also assist Mozambique establish its own academic research chairs
programme.
Enquiries:
Zama Mthethwa
Cell: 082 808 3956
E-mail: zama.mthethwa@dst.gov.za
