By: Van
Soul Addey
South Africa and China have
agreed to deepen scientific and technological cooperation, with artificial
intelligence, quantum computing, talent development, health innovation, energy
research and science and technology parks identified as priority areas for
expanded collaboration.
South African Minister of
Science, Technology and Innovation Prof. Blade Nzimande held a high-level
strategic meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Minister Yin Hejun, on the
margins of the 19th Pujiang Innovation Forum in Shanghai.
The bilateral engagement
focused on strengthening and expanding existing scientific cooperation between
the two countries and identifying areas where greater collaboration could
support research, innovation and technological development.
Artificial intelligence and
quantum computing emerged as key areas for deeper cooperation, reflecting the
growing importance of advanced technologies to national competitiveness and
economic development.
The two countries also
identified talent and youth development as a priority, with collaboration
expected to support skills development and create greater opportunities for
young people to participate in science, technology and innovation.
Health innovation was
another area highlighted during the discussions, alongside energy research and
the establishment of science and technology parks.
The meeting provides a
platform for South Africa and China to build on existing scientific
partnerships while expanding cooperation in emerging technologies and research
areas with potential economic and social impact.
