The 9th BRICS Young Scientist Forum (YSF) kicked off in Sochi, Russia, on 25 November, bringing together more than 150 brilliant young scientists and innovators from BRICS countries, including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, as well as new members Iran, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, and Ethiopia.

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and its entity, the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) selected 17 young innovators and scientists to represent South Africa at the YSF.

These young scientists are pitching their ideas for the Young Innovator Prize, worth $25 000. The competition identifies top research and innovation projects with the potential to contribute to global scientific and economic development and engage large numbers of young scientists in scientific and technical cooperation internationally.

Russia's Minister of Science and Higher Education, Mr Valery Falkov, addressed the delegates at the opening, saying the research of the young scientists and innovators present have the potential to change the world for the better. 

The YSF aims to develop international relations among the youth, consolidate scientific knowledge in search of answers to common social problems, and solidify BRICS members' position in global science and technology.

"The results of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, with the participation of 36 leaders of the BRICS countries and dialogue partners have demonstrated a keen interest in the development of cooperation based on mutual respect and equality," said Dr Falkov.

He said today BRICS represented almost half of the world's population and accounts for one third of the world's GDP, with states having enormous economic, scientific, technological and human potential that all contribute to the increasing role of BRICS in the international arena.

BRICS has laid the foundation for the creation of scientific databases, the expansion of the humanitarian agenda, the development of land and sea expeditions, as well as the realisation of BRICS science, technology and innovation flagship and innovative projects. In this regard, the Minister said that BRICS looked forward to the active participation of young scientists in the implementation of the adopted initiatives.

Minister Falkov encouraged delegates to actively establish networks for possible joint research projects in the future, including within the BRICS framework.

South Africa's head of delegation, Associate Professor of Engineering at the University of Cape Town, Prof. Moses Basitere, said the YSF stood as a testament to the shared commitment to addressing global challenges through scientific collaboration.

"This gathering transcends our borders, highlighting the power of science and innovation to unite nations under a shared vision," said Prof. Basitere, adding that including the BRICS+ countries underscored the collective recognition that global problems such as climate change and food security demanded global solutions.

The opening featured presentations from both young innovators and scientists. The young scientists presented on environmental and climate technologies, digital humanities and AI, while the innovators explored green technologies in AI, food security and chemical applications.

Mr Vukile Mnyande, an innovator and senior engineer at the Uyilo eMobility Programme at Nelson Mandela University, presented his Smart Microgrid Energy Management System with second-life electric vehicle battery integration. 

In another session, Mr Mfanelo Ndlela presented his company’s smart water management application as a solution to South Africa's water challenges such as inefficient use and losses as a result of leaks. 

"The need for monitoring and measuring the water supplied by water service authorities is crucial to gain a better understanding of the nature and extent of the challenges faced by the water sector," he said. 

Presentations and pitches continued on the second day of the YSF, where young scientists such as Dr Sebonkile Thaba presented on nature-like technologies as drivers of a sustainable future.  

Dr Thaba is a lecturer at the University of Johannesburg's Department of Transport and Supply Chain Management, specialising in the integration of blockchain technology in logistics and supply chains.

The YSF is taking place on the sidelines of Russia's IV Congress of Young Scientists, attended by the YSF participants as well as outstanding international scientists and representatives of government authorities and companies.

Taking place from 27 to 29 November at Sirius University, the congress is set to be a groundbreaking event with the use of cutting-edge technologies to enhance delegates' experience such as the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to simultaneously translate four languages: Chinese, English, French and Russian.

Issued by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation.

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