President to officiate World Science Forum
President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Tuesday, 6 December 2022, deliver the keynote address at the opening session of the World Science Forum (WSF) in Cape Town. The President’s participation in the World Science Forum will be a highlight of South Africa’s first hosting of this global forum under the auspices of the Department of Science and Innovation.
The theme for the forum which will be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 6 to 9 December 2022 is "Science for Social Justice". The WSF takes place every two years and is among the most significant science gatherings worldwide where scientists from all over the world engage on the role science should play in society. South Africa’s hosting of the event itself creates significant economic activity in the host city of Cape Town as well as industries countrywide that support such an occasion.
In hosting this forum, South Africa is looking to promote global debate that inspires action; provide support for African leadership in global science policy discussions; and to promote South Africa as a strategic partner for global science collaboration in response to societal challenges.
Established by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, in collaboration with the United Nations' Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the gathering will see renowned thought leaders deliberate on various topics that include science for human dignit; science for climate justice; science diplomacy for multilateralism; and science for Africa and the World.
The event will be a platform for more than 900 leading scientists and decision-makers from the politics and industry, representatives of civil society, and the media to express their views
on new challenges facing science in the 21st century.
A series of pre-events has also been organised, including a Science Journalism Programme, discussions about the green hydrogen economy, an air-quality fun run in Sea Point and Khayelitsha, excursions to scientific facilities in and around Cape Town, a robotics boot camp for learners, a Women in Science film festival and a breakfast function with the international Square Kilometre Array Organisation.
The Opening Ceremony will take place as follows:
Date: 06 December 2022
Time:17h00
Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre
Media accreditation enquiries:
Veronica Mohapeloa
Cell: 083 400 5750
Or
Thabang Setlhare
Department of Science and Innovation
Cell: 072 659 9690
Media enquiries:
Vincent Magwenya
Spokesperson to the President
Cell: 082 835 9315
