Universities at the Center of Science Diplomacy in Africa
At a high-level meeting held in South Africa, the critical role of higher education institutions in shaping Africa's own science diplomacy agenda was discussed.
During a high-level dialogue meeting held at Stellenbosch University, the strategic position of universities, existing gaps, and their roles in diplomatic infrastructure in shaping Africa's own science diplomacy agenda were discussed.
Gathering at Stellenbosch University
Daan du Toit from South Africa's Department of Science, Technology and Innovation emphasized at the meeting held at Stellenbosch University that Africa must establish its own science diplomacy agenda.
The dialogue, titled The Future of Science Diplomacy in the Changing Face of the Global Order, was organized in partnership with the SU Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology and the Africa STI Leaders Forum.
Conflicts of Interest and Science Diplomacy
Dr. Heide Hackmann, Director of CREST, stated that viewing science diplomacy purely as a force for good would be naive, noting that it is a contested set of choices involving differing interests.
Sir Peter Gluckman, President of the International Science Council, pointed out that scientists, diplomats, and the private sector operate within different cultures and highlighted the scarcity of visionary individuals who can build bridges between these fields.
Academic Infrastructure and Diplomatic Literacy
Prof. Aldo Stroebel from the University of Mpumalanga noted that while most global knowledge is produced by universities, even leading academics can possess insufficient knowledge about the international system.
Prof. Thandi Mgwebi, Vice-Chancellor of Walter Sisulu University, stated that universities build lasting human relationships and that academics need diplomatic literacy regarding geopolitical contexts and ethical issues.
Future Conference and Shared Vision
Prof. Alinah Segobye from the Africa Foundation and Prof. Lise Korsten from the Academy of Science of South Africa emphasized that 55 countries must join forces instead of allowing others to determine their priorities.
It was announced that the inaugural Africa Science Diplomacy Conference will be held in Pretoria from November 30 to December 1, 2026, under the theme with Africa, for Africa, and by Africa.