Two young researchers from South Africa will be among thousands of scientists and researchers attending Europe's largest science conference, which takes place in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 21 to 26 June.
Takatso Semenya, a physiotherapist at the University of Limpopo, and Prof Mamello Thinyane, who is an associate professor at Fort Hare University's Department of Computer Science, will be accompanying the Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, and the newly appointed President of the Medical Research Council and leading HIV/Aids specialist, Prof Glenda Gray.
The EuroScience Open Forum (ESOF) is an open platform to debate science and a showcase for global research. It also aims to promote dialogue on the role of science and technology in society and public policy.
Speaking ahead of the event, Minister Pandor said: "The EuroScience Open Forum presents an opportunity for South Africa to showcase its latest advances in science. There is much to learn from this country!"
Looking forward to discussions, Ms Semenya said attending ESOF2014 would help her glean best and novel practices in science, technology and innovation, which she would share and implement in South Africa as a contribution to building a knowledge-based economy.
"My plan is to use this opportunity to learn from different experts in order to help transform this country's health sciences research environment and products into something uniquely African yet being globally competitive," said Ms Semenya.
Prof Thinyane is particularly interested in how information and communication technologies (ICTs) can be used to address socio-economic challenges, particularly in rural areas and among the youth.
"For me this event presents a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge in the ICT field and network with researchers from other countries. There are many Europeans who are interested in Africa, and ESOF is a chance to sell South Africa and find ways to form partnerships towards the development of this country," said Prof Thinyane.
Prof Gray is scheduled to make a presentation on how health diplomacy drives business and innovation.
Themed "Science Building Bridges", the conference is aimed at raising the public's awareness of science and strengthening the "bridges" between science and society.
Denmark has a deep-rooted scientific tradition and a strong commitment to scientific and technological innovation, which play an important role in translating knowledge from science to society.
South Africa remains one of the most successful participants from outside Europe in the EU Framework Programmes for Research and Technological Development, with major participation dating back to the fourth framework programme. Under the seventh, more than R400 million in EU funding was allocated to South African organisations.
Enquiries:
David Mandaha
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