Deputy Minister to address G20 meetings on research and innovation
South Africa's leadership in science, technology and innovation takes centre stage as Deputy Minister, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, delivers the closing remarks at the G20 Research and Innovation Working Group (RIWG) meeting in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, 25 February 2025.
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) is hosting this critical global dialogue alongside the G20 Initiative on Bioeconomy (GIB), which has been underway at the University of the Free State since Sunday, 23 February.
The G20 RIWG is a high-level platform in which leading economies tackle pressing challenges through cutting-edge research, technology, and innovation.
As the G20 President for 2025, South Africa is using this opportunity to champion science diplomacy, advocate for the Global South, showcase the country's contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and lead discussions on sustainable bioeconomic growth.
The Deputy Minister will meet with G20 representatives, South African youth, and indigenous knowledge holders, ensuring that traditionally marginalised voices are amplified. With sustainability at the forefront, the GIB will explore solutions that foster social equity, climate resilience and economic prosperity.
With the theme "Equity in science and innovation-based approaches to sustainable development", the RWIG, under the leadership of DSTI Minister Blade Nzimande, aims to advance a global agenda that ensures innovation benefits all.
A special side event, co-hosted by UNESCO will celebrate the UN Women and Girls in Science Day, reinforcing the need for gender inclusivity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields.
As the first African nation to hold the G20 Presidency, South Africa is leading discussions at a crucial time when the world faces intersecting crises, including climate change, inequality, poverty, unemployment, and geopolitical instability.
The media are invited as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 25 February 2025
Time: 09:00
Venue: University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
Issued by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.
For accreditation and further information, please contact: Veronica Mohapeloa on 083 400 5750 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
