Pretoria: Science and technology should be understood as extensions of social relations, says the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande. The Minister was speaking at the Group of 20 (G20) Chief Science Advisors’ (CSAR) Roundtable. The roundtable was hosted by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation’s (DSTI) National Advisory Council on Innovation.
According to South African Government News Agency, Nzimande emphasized that after the attainment of democracy, the focus was on rebuilding society to eliminate racial, gender, class, and spatial injustices. He highlighted that the legacies of apartheid and colonialism were perpetuated through the misuse of science by the apartheid government.
Nzimande also pointed out the role of technology in current global issues, citing the situation in Gaza as an example where technologies like artificial intelligence are implicated. He stressed that science and technology are not neutral and must adhere to moral and ethical standards.
He affirmed South Africa’s dedication to science-driven public policy, highlighting the establishment of advisory bodies and the adoption of a new mantra: ‘Placing Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Centre of Government, Education, Society, and Industry.’ This mantra underscores the commitment to integrating science into national development for a sustainable future.
The G20 CSAR, initiated during India’s G20 Presidency in 2023, plays a crucial role in advising on science, technology, and innovation policies. This year, the focus is on equity-based STI for global sustainability.
As part of DSTI’s G20 programme, Nzimande is participating in meetings at the CSIR International Convention Centre, serving as the President of the Intergovernmental Council of the MOST Programme. The programme will conclude with the G20 Research and Innovation Ministerial Meeting in Pretoria, where the Tshwane Declaration will be adopted.