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South Africa’s STI Minister Leads Delegation on Strategic Visits to Tunisia and Algeria
Professor Blade Nzimande, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation of South Africa, has embarked on a high-level mission to Tunisia and Algeria. This comprehensive visit is aimed at strengthening science, technology, and innovation (STI) cooperation between South Africa and these North African nations. The trip began on Monday, 14 July, and is scheduled to conclude by the end of the week.
The initiative follows formal invitations from the Tunisian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Mondher Belaid, and the Algerian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Kamel Bidari. The goal of the visit is to deepen existing bilateral relationships and expand the scope of STI collaboration within the African continent.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
According to the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), the minister’s agenda includes a series of bilateral meetings with his counterparts in both countries. These engagements are expected to foster greater coordination and joint initiatives in scientific research, technological development, and innovation.
In Tunisia, the minister will visit several key institutions, including the Borja Cedria Technopark, the Pasteur Institute of Tunis, the Bardo National Museum, and the City of Science Museum. These visits aim to explore opportunities for knowledge exchange and potential partnerships in various scientific fields.
In Algeria, the itinerary includes stops at the Centre for the Development of Advanced Technologies, Saad Dahlab University, and the Great Mosque of Algiers. A notable highlight of the visit is a guest lecture organized by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Cooperation, focusing on Pan-African cooperation.
Emphasizing Pan-African STI Collaboration
Nzimande highlighted the significance of these visits as part of South Africa’s broader strategy to enhance science, technology, and innovation ties with other African nations. He emphasized that such collaborations are essential for advancing the objectives of the African Union’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA).
The minister stressed the importance of fostering a sovereign science, technology, and innovation agenda for Africa, especially in light of the current geopolitical challenges and the need for sustainable development on the continent.
Launching New Plans of Action
As part of the mission, the delegation will finalize two new comprehensive Plans of Action. These documents are intended to intensify cooperation with Tunisia and Algeria, respectively. The plans represent a tangible step toward implementing the ambitions outlined by Minister Nzimande in his recent Budget Vote speech.
The minister’s team includes senior officials from the ministry, the department, and its affiliated entities, such as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA). Additionally, experts from the Council for Mineral Technology (Mintek) are part of the delegation.
Conclusion
The visits to Tunisia and Algeria underscore South Africa’s commitment to building strong STI partnerships across the African continent. By engaging with key institutions and leaders in both countries, the mission aims to create a foundation for long-term collaboration and shared progress. These efforts are not only aligned with national interests but also contribute to the broader vision of a united and innovative Africa.
