South Africa calls for science and technology partnership with China

South African Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Blade Nzimande emphasized the need to strengthen technological partnership with China in critical areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and space science during his speech at the Pujiang Innovation Forum held in Shanghai.

Call at the Pujiang Innovation Forum

South African Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Blade Nzimande made important evaluations within the scope of the 2026 Pujiang Innovation Forum held in Shanghai, China. Nzimande stated that scientific relations between the two countries should be deepened further.

The main theme of this year's forum, which has been organized annually since 2008 by the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology and the Shanghai Municipal Government, was determined as the mission of the global science and technology community.

Areas of Cooperation

Minister Nzimande announced that South Africa and China will increase their cooperation in strategic headings such as artificial intelligence, joint research centers, space science, astronomy, quantum computing, and cybersecurity.

Stating that this partnership between the two countries is shaped on the basis of solidarity and development, Nzimande noted that relations have also spread to different areas such as health, traditional medicine, forestry, and energy research.

Young Scientists Exchange Program

Touching upon projects carried out for young researchers, Nzimande drew attention to the importance of the Young Scientists Exchange Program. It was stated that thanks to this program, scholarships, laboratory internships, and mentorship opportunities are provided.

It was conveyed that in line with these provided opportunities, young researchers find the chance to personally experience advanced industrial research environments.