The Minister of Science, Technology,
and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has officially met with Ms. Anna
Maria Bernini, the Italian Minister of University and Research, in Rome to
discuss advancing collaboration in science, technology, and innovation.
During the meeting, Professor
Nzimande reflected on the history of collaboration between the two nations and
highlighted recent changes in South Africa's cabinet, including the
re-establishment of the standalone Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation.
The Ministers identified several
areas of mutual interest, including international infrastructure projects,
particularly in physics and astronomy, oceans research, and Italy’s support for
the International Centre of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB).
These topics align with South Africa’s strategic priorities in science and
research, offering potential for impactful collaborations.
A significant focus of the
discussion was the Presidential PhD Programme, where Professor Nzimande
expressed South Africa’s interest in exploring further cooperation with Italy.
This program aims to build a robust base of highly skilled researchers, contributing
to the global knowledge economy.
As South Africa assumes the
presidency of the G20 Research and Innovation Working Group, Professor Nzimande
shared the country’s priorities and extended an invitation to Minister Bernini
to visit South Africa during its G20 presidency in 2025. This invitation
reflects South Africa’s intent to deepen bilateral ties and foster
international partnerships in research and innovation.
The meeting was supported by
officials from the South African Ministry of Science, Technology, and
Innovation, the Department of Science and Innovation, and the South African
Embassy in Italy.
